DOT: Vaxx card, face masks no longer required for tourists

Department of Tourism (Photo courtesy of DOT / PNA)

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

Popular

SSS to roll out 3-year pension hike starting September 2025

By Anna Leah Gonzales | Philippine News Agency State-run Social Security System (SSS) said it will implement a Pension Reform Program, which features a structured,...

DOE to talk with DSWD, DILG for Lifeline Rate utilization

By Joann Villanueva | Philippine News Agency The Department of Energy (DOE) is set to discuss with other government agencies the inclusion of more Pantawid...

Zero-billing for basic accommodation in DOH hospitals applicable to everyone —Herbosa

By Brian Campued The “zero balance billing” being implemented in all Department of Health (DOH)-run hospitals across the country is applicable to everyone as long...

DepEd committed to address classroom shortage

By Brian Campued Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday emphasized the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in addressing the shortage of classrooms...