By Janine Dumaguin

The Department of Tourism (DOT) said Monday, March 6 that showing proof of COVID-19 vaccination and wearing of face masks in tourism enterprises will no longer be required.

This, after DOT released Memorandum Circular (MC) 2023-0002, which further relaxed the health and safety regulations governing the operations of tourism business and promoting wider opening of the country to visitors and travelers.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said that DOT MC 2023-0002 aims to aid the economic hardships of tourism stakeholders.

“This latest issuance on the relaxed health and safety guidelines for tourism establishments reinforces the Department of Tourism’s commitment towards addressing the economic hardships of the tourism industry brought about by the lockdowns and restrictions by the pandemic,” Frasco added.

Through the memorandum, the previous administration’s earlier requirements for tourism establishments were lifted.

“It sends the important message across that, under the Marcos Administration, our country is open for tourism, and that we are keeping up with global practices on tourism operations that have already opened up worldwide,” Frasco continued.

The Department also announced that it will no longer issue Philippine Safety Seal and World Travel and Tourism Council Safe Travels Stamp to tourism enterprises. – gb