DOT: More than 1,000 foreign tourists visit PH amid eased travel curbs

Berna Romulo-Puyat talks to members of the media in Boracay Island, Aklan, Philippines, on Friday, February 11, 2022. Also in photo is vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. (back). INQUIRER.net/John Eric Mendoza

BORACAY, Philippines — More than 1,000 foreign tourists have visited the Philippines since the country opened its doors to international tourism amid relaxed travel rules, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said.

Puyat said the first day of reopening on Thursday, February 10, saw 421 foreign tourists visiting the country and 685 tourists so far visiting on Friday.

“We were shocked because we thought we will only have single digits [of tourists],” Puyat told reporters in an ambush interview here.

The Philippines allowed the entry of fully vaccinated tourists from 157 countries that have visa-free arrangements with the country starting February 10.

RELATED STORY

DOT: 222 foreign tourists expected to arrive as PH reopens on February 10

PH allows entry of foreigners from visa-required countries

76 quarantine hotels seek DOT permission to shift to regular operation