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Cebu is one of the Philippines’ biggest travel destinations, with millions of tourists looking to experience its breathtaking beaches, high-end resorts, and social events each year.
However, there was a dip in the number of visitors as the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world in 2020, putting a halt on travel plans for many wanderers and explorers worldwide.
The travel requirements going to Cebu were pretty strict, with authorities requiring travelers to bring vaccination cards, negative COVID test results, and masks to enter the island.
Four years later, COVID cases have drastically dropped, leading to a resurgence of tourists visiting Philippine tourist spots and attending grand celebrations like the famous Sinulog Festival.
If you’re planning on traveling to Cebu soon, it’s now much more convenient. Gone are the days when Cebu airport required all the necessary health requirements to gain entry.
That being said, here is an overview of the travel requirements going to Cebu, now that the country is adapting to the new normal.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS GOING TO CEBU
- eTravel Pass
You can get this by registering and creating an account at etravel.gov.ph. It should be registered 72 hours prior to your intended arrival.
This online card system was made by the Philippine government to simplify immigration procedures for travelers arriving or departing from the country.
It gathers all important information like passport data, personal details, and even travel plans. This also serves as a health declaration since you will be asked to answer health inquiries during registration.
- Airport Guidelines
When you get to Mactan Cebu International Airport, you will go through a symptom check.
They also require passengers to download Traze, a contact tracing application you can install on Google Play and Apple Store. Passengers must scan the QR codes that are located within the airport.
Other travel requirements going to Cebu, according to intentionaltravelers.com, include:
- A Philippine passport that is valid for at least six months at the time of arrival. U.S. Citizens are allowed visa-free entry into the Philippines for 30 days.
- Return or outbound ticket
- Proof of booking at an accredited establishment in Cebu
Travel restrictions change from time to time, so make sure to read up on them when traveling anywhere in the world.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU CATCH COVID?
According to worldometers.info, there are only over 6,000 cases of coronavirus patients left in the country as of February 2024. While the country is experiencing its lowest number of cases since 2019, there is still a need to be cautious.
Though it’s no longer required, you are still advised to wear a mask. It’s best to carry alcohol or sanitizer with you on the go as well. Also, wash your hands whenever you can.
Foreign tourists who test positive for COVID while staying in the Philippines must be isolated at any of the following hotels in Cebu City, as recommended by southeastasiabackpacker.com:
- St. Mark’s Hotel
- Escario Central Hotel
- Hotel Pier Cuatro
- In and Go Hotel
Moderate to severe cases should be isolated for ten days from the start of their symptoms. Patients may be admitted to a health care facility if advised by the attending physician.
Severe cases should be isolated until further advice from the health care provider. Meanwhile, asymptomatic cases are advised to stay at home for five days or until they are fever-free.
As the country slowly recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, travel requirements going to Cebu are easier and more convenient to acquire.
