PASAY CITY, 25 July 2023 – The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) supports the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions in accordance with Proclamation Order No. 297 by President Marcos, officially ending the state of public health emergency in the country. This significant development marks a decisive turning point in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and allows for a gradual return to normalcy.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on July 22 issued Department Order 2023-017 directing agencies under it to implement the directive of the President.
The Department of Health (DOH) in an advisory declared that all established COVID protocols for travelers are lifted. Further to this, the advisory also stated that the use of masks in public transport is considered lifted from a technical standpoint. With this development, individuals are now free to make their own choices regarding this measure.
Likewise, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) issued a parallel advisory stating that all COVID-19-related orders are no longer in effect and that airline companies may discontinue implementation of all COVID-19 protocols.
Meanwhile, registration on the eTravel portal is made much easier as passengers need not upload any proof of vaccination and COVID-19 test results.
However, DOH, through the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), will continue to monitor inbound passengers and subject to further screening those who will exhibit flu-like symptoms, including elevated temperatures as detected by their thermal scanners.
"I am sure this development will boost existing efforts of the MIAA and the tourism sector to promote the Philippines as a preferred destination. Our passenger and flight volumes showed a significant increase in 2022 and continue to display an upward trend based on our January to June 2023 records, giving us optimism that we might be back to our pre-pandemic levels in no time or even surpass them. We are excited to welcome more and more visitors and returning kababayans now that COVID protocols have been finally lifted," MIAA Officer-in-Charge Bryan Co said.
MIAA continues to prioritize the health and safety of all travelers and airport personnel. While restrictions are being lifted, MIAA remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and will be ready to support DOH in fulfilling its mandate.