MANILA: Beginning February 10, the Philippines will allow fully vaccinated foreigners from countries and regions that do not require a visa to enter the country.

According to reports, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles stated that foreigners travelling for business or tourism must provide immunisation certificates and passports valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.

The decision to allow "leisure visitors" to enter the country, according to Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, "would contribute greatly to job restoration, notably in tourism-dependent regions, and in the reopening of companies shut down by the pandemic." Puyat thought that by expanding the country to international tourism, the Philippines would maintain pace with its Southeast Asian neighbours who had already opened their borders.

"We also recognise that, given the virus's unpredictable nature, there is no room for complacency. We will keep a careful eye on the issue and guarantee that all tourism establishments follow strict health and safety regulations "Puyat explained.

Meanwhile, starting February 1, the Philippines will temporarily suspend the Covid-19 risk classification for fully vaccinated travellers.

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