Top beach destination Boracay is allowing the entry of tourists who will test negative for COVID-19 via the cheaper and quicker saliva RT-PCR test, the Department of Tourism said Thursday.
The Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force approved the use of saliva tests for tourists on the condition that they should be administered by the Philippine Red Cross, and other testing laboratories approved and accredited by the Food and Drug Administration, and Department of Health.
Previously, Boracay only accepts negative COVID-19 test results obtained via RT-PCR swabbing.
MORE ON SALIVA TESTS:
You Can Get COVID Saliva Tests at These Robinsons Malls
Red Cross Warns Against Scam Sellers of COVID Saliva Test
Siargao Now Accepts COVID-19 Saliva Test Results
Do Local Tourist Spots Accept Saliva Test Results? Bohol Does
The tourism department said it was willing to help fund a gene expert machine for the local government unit of Malaya, which covers Boracay island.
"The DOT reminds tourists and stakeholders of the need to still strictly ensure minimum health and safety protocols such as wearing of a mask and face shield, physical distancing, hand sanitizing, and booking or operating in DOT-accredited establishments, among others to protect both the tourists, tourism workers and the residents of our host communities," it said.
To boost arrivals, the tourism department said it recommended to the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19 to lift the age-based travel restriction for individuals traveling to Boracay from Manila.
Metro Manila remains under general community quarantine while Boracay is under the less stricter modified general community quarantine.
MORE ON TOURISM AND TRAVEL:
Planning a Trip? The DOH Recommends a Flexible Booking
WATCH: Tourism Sec. Puyat Gushes Over Underrated Destinations
Filipinos Want to Revenge Travel with Family, Says Airbnb Survey