Baguio City will pilot the use of antigen testing to screen tourists as the industry slowly and cautiously reopens from months of virus lockdown, the Department of Tourism said. While less conclusive that the RT-PCR, an antigen test is cheaper and delivers faster results.
The adoption of antigen testing will hopefully encourage more Filipinos to travel, said Tourism Sec. Bernadette Romulo Puyat. Antigen testing is also being used to screen staycationers in Metro Manila hotels.
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"The re-opening of tourism in Baguio City is a calibrated and deliberate move after consultations with the stakeholders, the community and the health sector. We will never compromise the health and safety of our constituents and visitors. That is why we are working on the principle of safe, sure and responsible travel," said Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong.
Baguio City reopened to more tourists on Oct. 1, along with Boracay.
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