Philippine Travel Update: Ilocos Norte Re-opens to Luzon Tourists starting October 15, 2020!

Following Boracay Island, Ilocos Norte will start to re-open to local tourists on October 15, 2020!  

Paoay Church

“We’re elated with the decision of Governor Manotoc to finally welcome visitors from Luzon to Ilocos Norte, even those coming from areas that are still under general community quarantine (GCQ). The province’s success in managing the number of COVID-19 cases, not to mention an array of cultural sites, natural attractions, and fun activities make it really worth the long drive for people looking for a cure for their cabin fever," Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said. 

 

All local tourists from Luzon including those from areas that are still under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) will be allowed to visit Ilocos Norte as long as they provide a Negative RT-PCR Test Result within 48 hours before entry to the province. Local tourists are also reminded to wear masks, face shields, and always practice social distancing during their stay. 

Ilocos Norte Capitol

Currently, the province sets an initial target of 50 tourists per day in a bid to prevent COVID-19 spread. They also had issued a certificate of authority to 208 hotels and resorts in Ilocos Norte which are also regularly checked by the Regional Office for compliance with health and safety standards. 

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Check out below Frequently Asked Questions that will help you when planning your next vacation in Ilocos Norte:

 

1. Who are allowed to enter Ilocos Norte?

Travelers from Luzon area including those from areas that are still under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

 

2. Is there an age limit when visiting Ilocos Norte?

There is no age limit however, tourists that are pregnant and has a high-risk health condition and comorbidities are not allowed to visit. Everyone are also require to take an RT-PCR test.

 

3. What are the requirements for travel?

Just like in Boracay Island, local tourists must accomplish the following requirements when visiting Ilocos Norte:

-       Tour Voucher with confirmed Accommodation Booking via accredited hotels/ resorts

-       Confirmed Tour Itinerary via accredited travel agencies / tour operators.

-       Negative RT-PCR Test / Antigen Test valid for 48 hours before travel. (You may schedule your Rapid Antigen Test upon arrival at the Pinili Visitor Center; payment for the test is shouldered by pax)

-       Medical Certificate

-       Travel Authority

-       Safe Pass QR Code

 

4. How to get Safe Pass QR Code?

First, you must pre-register your travel at ilocosnorte.ph. Then, request a SafePass entry account at request.safp.as or thru SafePass Portal via Facebook Messenger. Once done, don’t forget to save a digital or printed copy or your QR code since you will need to present this at the gateway checkpoints of the province, tourism establishments, and accessing other services while in Ilocos Norte.

Sandboarding at Paoay Sand Dunes

Once you’re all done with the requirements and now heading to Ilocos Norte, please be guided of the following guidelines upon arrival:

 

1. At Badoc Gateway, present your SafePass QR code to the personnel for scanning and travel documents and valid IDs. Then, head to Ilocos Norte Tourist Triage South at the Pinili Visitor Center which is only 8 minute drive away from the gateway.

 

2. Complete the triage by presenting again the SafePass QR Code, travel documents, and valid ID.

3. Once done and cleared, you may now proceed to your pre-booked accommodation. 

Check out below map for your reference: 

Photo source: Ilocos Norte Tourism

Once you’re in Ilocos Norte, make sure to follow your itinerary with the guidance of your travel operator or tour guide. Keep your QR Codes with you at all times and don’t forget to digitally check-in and check-out in all sites for easier contact tracing.

 

It’s not hard to see why Ilocos Norte became one of the must-visit destinations in the country. The province boasts with various attractions such as a stunning wind farm, panoramic ocean view, exciting sand dunes adventure, and architectural wonders that is sure to let you enjoy whatever your travel preference is! Now that they are slowly re-opening, many are sure to be looking forward to unwind yet we must always keep in mind to travel safely!

 

Reference:

Department of Tourism - Philippines

Ilocos Norte Tourism

 

 

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