The recent spike in COVID-19 infections has prompted mayors to implement a uniform 10pm to 5am curfew in Metro Manila until March 31. Provincial leaders are also limiting movement in their respective areas, such as Cavite governor Jonvic Remulla declaring Kaybiang Tunnel off-limits to tourists starting today, March 19.
On the other hand, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is encouraging domestic travel, albeit “responsibly,” according to Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. The reality is that people badly want to get together with their family and friends, but are faced with the dilemma of safety.
For Dr. Beverly Ho, who heads the Department of Health’s communication services, planning a group ride or vacation trip is a question of timing. She explained during a session with Summit Media editors: “We have a lot to look at in the next few weeks. Sana po lahat kayo mas more tentative. Let’s be flexible.
“Once the cases improve in the next few weeks, then perhaps that’s a possibility (travel), but if we’re not able to manage it as well as we should be, then let’s be ready to cancel our trips lalo na kung hindi naman siya urgent at essential.”
Among the primary considerations for travel are the high-risk members of your household, as well as the safety your destination. The elderly and individuals with comorbidities are obviously in danger of severe infection. Meanwhile, the place must be DOT-accredited and comply with COVID-19 protocols.
Ho added: “Is it being physically out of the house that’s needed? And if so, we don’t have the restrictions we had last year. Now, mas stronger din yung advocacy namin for open spaces, people to be able to bike outside, makapag-community playgrounds.”
