DOT Posts Pandemic Guidelines on Island and Beach Operations in PH

Planning to Hit the Beach Soon? Read DOT’s Guidelines on Island and Beach Operations Before You Go

We're slowly easing into the new normal.
by Kyzia Maramara | September 11, 2020

via Unsplash: Toa Heftiba

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Sept. 9 issued their new guidelines for tourism operations under the “new normal” and for areas operating under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ). The Memorandum Circular No. 2020 — 007 states the health and safety guidelines for island and beach destinations while the Administrative Order No. 2020 — 004 detailed the guidelines for leisure and tourism operations under MGCQ.

These are to take effect immediately and will be in effect until further notice.

Guidelines for guests and personnel

Pre-booking a place is required for those staying for at least one night. Your chosen establishment will submit guest names to authorities manning the ports of entry (airport, checkpoint, dock, etc.) for reference. Walk-ins are strictly not allowed. But if you’re only visiting for a day tour, make sure you present proof.

Online reservations and online payment are encouraged.

READ: Do You Need a Travel Pass? Here Are Some Answers to Your GCQ Questions

Before you can enter an island or beach destination, you will have to undergo temperature checks and fill out Health Declaration Forms at designated ports of entry. It goes without saying that if your temperature is high or if you’ve been recently ill, you might be denied entry.

All destinations also have a “No face mask, no entry” policy and have strict social distancing rules.

Personnel is reminded to take extra caution and adhere to health and safety standards. They will be required to use proper PPE (face masks, face shields, gloves) and will observe physical distancing from guests.

What you should expect at the beach

Say goodbye to beaches packed with bakasyonistas. LGUs will be instructed to place beach marshals and use markers (flags, lines, etc.) to ensure proper physical distancing. DOT has also prohibited vendors, shops, peddlers, and the like.

Outdoor non-contact sports and other forms of exercise such as swimming, surfing, running, and walking are allowed provided that Minimum Public Health Standards are observed

Group events such as sports competitions, camps, company outings, and other activities should be checked in with the LGU first.

READ: Modified ECQ, GCQ, and Modified ECQ Explained: What Does This Mean for Travelers?

Public restrooms must be supplied with clean water, soap, alcohol, and enough paper towels. They must also be regularly maintained and sanitized.

But while these guidelines are in effect, remember that you should check with LGUs before giving your trip the go signal. Many areas are still subject to the regulations imposed by LGUs such as the case of Boracay Island which operates under the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force.