(PNA fie photo by Cristina Arayata)
MANILA – For the first two weeks of January, 68 people were prevented from taking their flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for presenting a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test indicating they are positive for Covid-19.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) on Monday said most of the 68 claimed they did not check the RT-PCR result before going to the airport.
When asked about intercepted passengers, MIAA told the Philippine News Agency that the medical team coordinates with the passengers' respective local government unit (LGU).
"(The MIAA medical division) coordinates with their LGUs so they can be picked up at the airport. They are being directed temporarily in isolation areas of (NAIA) terminals," MIAA said.
In a statement on Monday, MIAA General Manager Ed Monreal appealed to passengers to wait for the result of their RT-PCR test, and not to go to the airport if they are Covid-19 positive.
Last year, authorities intercepted 576 individuals at NAIA for carrying positive RT-PCR test result.
"The numbers are really appalling. This behavior of some airline passengers is truly disturbing, especially now that cases of infection is growing by the day," Monreal said.
He also noted that this document requirement is being checked not just by the airport guards but also by the airlines during check-in.
Meanwhile, beginning Monday the "no vaccination, no ride" policy has been applied to all domestic flights to and from NAIA.
Major local carriers, as well as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, earlier supported the policy which states that only fully vaccinated individuals are allowed to take public transportation to, from, and within the National Capital Region.
Unvaccinated individuals who will travel for essential purposes will be allowed. Persons with medical conditions that prevent them from getting the vaccine are also exempted from the policy, provided that they present a medical certificate with the name and contact details of the physician.
MIAA is urging the public to prepare their vaccination card and a valid government ID with photo.
Unvaxxed minors
Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) clarified that minors can still fly, with some exemptions.
In an advisory on Monday afternoon, CEB said those below 18 years old who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated may still travel if they are returning residents, and when accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.
"Proof of residency must be presented along with existing LGU (local government unit) requirements, if any," the advisory read.
As the situation is still fluid, CEB said people who are unable to travel until January 31 may cancel their flight up to 2 hours before the supposed flight schedule.
They can store the amount in a travel fund valid for two years, or rebook their ticket for travel within 60 days, it added. (PNA)
