Bohol to reopen doors to local tourists by November 15

MANILA, Philippines — Bohol will reopen to local tourists starting November 15 as long as they test negative for the novel coronavirus.

“Magbubukas na po para sa turismo ang island paradise na Bohol mula po a-kinse ng Nobyembre,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in an online briefing aired from Bohol.

(The island paradise of Bohol will reopen to tourists on November 15.)

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque shows a card with a quick response code to be presented in tourist sites and accommodation establishments. Bohol Governor Arthur Yap says this will be utilized for contact tracing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Screenshot from PTV-4)

Bohol Governor Arthur Yap said tourists who plan to visit the island must present a 72-hour negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test result prior before entering the province.

“So if you have a valid negative PCR test result to COVID, then you can register, let us know about that, mabibigyan kayo ng QR [quick response] code. You will use that QR code to register then you can now book your stay with accredited establishments,” Yap explained.

Local tourists interested can register and get their QR codes via tourism.bohol.gov.ph.

Yap noted that do-it-yourself trips are not allowed, but the local government will provide guided itineraries to travelers.

The scheduled reopening of Bohol came as quarantine restrictions eased in the entire country, with tourist spots like Boracay and Baguio City also welcoming back tourists provided they follow strict health protocols.

EDV