So Metro Manila is Under a Community Quarantine; What Does This Mean for Travelers?

Public safety is the priority right now, not fulfilling travel goals.
by Cristina Morales | March 13, 2020

Last night, President Rodrigo Duterte announced a month-long community quarantine in Metro Manila from March 15, 2020 until April 14, 2020. This means that generally, people will not be able to travel in and out of Manila during that time period. What does this mean for travelers?

 

Non-essential travel will not be allowed

In a statement to the press last night, DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said that non-essential travel will not be allowed because they want to limit the number of people moving in and out of the affected areas.

If you have any travel plans during the quarantine period, most airlines and hotels will let you rebook or cancel your flight without additional fees.

READ: Rebooking, Cancellations, Etc: What Should You Do If COVID-19 Wrecks Your Travel Plans?

 

Will people who are currently overseas be able to return home?

Filipino citizens, their foreign spouses and children, holders of permanent resident visas, and holders of diplomatic visas issued by the Philippine Government will be able to re-enter the country through Manila. However, if they live outside (e.g. in Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, etc.), they will not be allowed to exit Metro Manila. They could fly to Clark and other international airports in the country, and travel from there.

 

I don’t live in Metro Manila but I have travel plans. Should I still push through with them?

This is really up to the traveler, but it is advised that people limit their movements to prevent the virus from spreading, especially because positive cases have been identified outside of NCR.

 

How has the lockdown affected your travel plans? Let us know how you’re dealing with it in the comments below. Stay safe!