Philippines Travel Update: International Air Transport Association (IATA) COVID-19 Outbreak Update

Updated as of  25 March 2020

In connection with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, IATA or International Air Transport Association released an updated compilation of documentation requirements for passengers traveling internationally via air.

Below is an update on the Philippines’ travel document requirements published on IATA’s website on March 21, 2020:

1. Passengers who have transited through or have been in China (People's Rep.), Hong Kong (SAR China) or Macao (SAR China) in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter the Philippines.

• This does not apply to nationals of the Philippines. They will be required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days from their arrival into the Philippines.
• This does not apply to spouses or children of nationals of the Philippines. They will be required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days from their arrival into the Philippines.
• This does not apply to permanent residents of the Philippines. They will be required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days from their arrival into the Philippines.

2. Passengers who have transited through or have been in the North Gyeongsang Province (including Daegu and Cheongdo Country) of Korea (Rep.) in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter the Philippines.

• This does not apply to nationals of the Philippines.
• This does not apply to spouses or children of nationals of the Philippines.
• This does not apply to permanent residents of the Philippines.

3. Passengers who have transited through or have been in Iran or Italy in the past 14 days are required to present a Medical Clearance or Health Declaration Certificate, issued by Health Authority within 48 hours prior to arrival and certifying that the passenger is free from Coronavirus (COVID-19).

• This does not apply to nationals of the Philippines.
• This does not apply to spouses or children of nationals of the Philippines.
• This does not apply to permanent residents of the Philippines.

Passengers who have transited through or have been in Iran or Italy in the past 14 days, are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Announced last 22 March 2020, passengers under the following visa categories are not allowed to enter the Philippines: 

• Passengers under Visa Waiver Agreement
• Passengers with Special Visas
• Passengers who fall under Executive Order No.408, s1960 (EO408);
• Passengers with a Hong Kong (SAR China) passport, Macao (SAR China) passport, Macao-Portuguese, and British National Overseas passports.
• Immigrant and non-Immigrant visa holders (i.e 13,9d, 9F, 9G 47a(2), etc.)

This does not apply to:

• Foreign spouses and children of Filipino nationals (if they are not traveling together, they should show proof of marriage or affiliation).
• Foreign government and International Organization officials whose visas were issued by the Philippines government.
• Foreign crew members.

For other information/ requirements for other countries, you may click this link to the IATA website.

Here’s how you can prevent getting infected by COVID-19:

With the continual spread of the coronavirus or COVID19, it is better to stay vigilant and follow these simple ways to prevent yourself from getting the disease.

1. Wash your hands with soap or use a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol with at least 70% solution.
2. Sneeze and cough into tissues or the crook of your elbow. If you get mucus or spit on your skin, clean it off right away.
3. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
4. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially people exhibiting respiratory symptoms and fever.
5. Stay home when you're sick.
6. Regularly and thoroughly clean surfaces, such as countertops and doorknobs, with a disinfectant. 
7. If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people and practice distancing yourself.  
8. For healthy people wear a mask only if you are caring for someone who is sick or a person with suspected COVID-19 infection. Facemasks may be in short supply and they should be saved for the caregivers.
9. If you choose to wear a facemask make sure it is covering your mouth and nose and leave no gaps between your face and the mask. 

Source: World Health Organization(WHO) & Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDCP)

Take care and stay safe, everyone.

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