Malacañang orders strict COVID-19 testing of all arriving inbound int’l travelers

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has ordered the strict implementation of COVID-19 testing and quarantine protocols for all inbound travelers from abroad to curb the spread of the disease in the country.

“As recommended by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) in its Resolution No. 116-A (s. 2021), and in pursuit of the national interest in preventing further spread of COVID-19 in the country, this Office herby directs all relevant agencies to implement the following,” Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said in his memorandum on Thursday.

“Enforce the current testing and quarantine protocols approved and issued by the IATF applicable to inbound travelers in all ports of entry, regardless of any specific protocols that may be issued by local government units (LGUs) to the contrary,” he added.

Similarly, Medialdea announced that all international flights set to arrive at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport would instead be diverted to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) starting May 29, Saturday.

“All international flights bound for the Mactan-Cebu International Airport shall be diverted to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport effective 12:00 a.m. of 29 May 2020 until 11:59 p.m. of 05 June 2021,” he said.

“The Department of Transportation, through its attached agencies, and the Manila International Airport Authority shall ensure the smooth diversion of inbound flights,” he added.

JE