DOT lauds ‘very timely’ reopening of historical sites, museums as Independence Day nears

The Mt. Samat Shrine of Valor is one of the major tourism sites in Bataan province. (Photo by Greg Refraccion)

MANILA, Philippines — Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat on Friday lauded the “very timely” approval of reopening the historical sites and museums in NCR Plus ahead of the 123rd Philippine Independence Day.

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The reopening was announced Friday, a day before the Independence day on June 12, with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) allowing a 20 percent operation on the region which covers Metro Manila and the neighboring provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, and Laguna, that is currently under a General Community Quarantine (GCQ) with restrictions.

“This good news is very timely as it coincides with our observance of Independence Day,” Puyat said in a statement. “The historical sites and museums remind us of our rich culture and history and of the heroism of those who fought for our freedom.”

“Revisiting our past brings us closer together as a people and draws us closer to a future free of the perils and uncertainty brought about by the pandemic,” she added.

However, the Department of Tourism said details are still few and the exact date of re-opening is not yet known.

Last month, IATF allowed the operation of outdoor tourist attractions, also on a limited capacity.

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