Cebu ditches COVID-19 test requirements to encourage visit from local tourists

In an effort to revive its struggling tourism industry, Cebu has announced that it will no longer require visiting tourists to undergo swab tests for COVID-19.

Governor Gwendolyn Garcia relayed the news, opposing plans to put the province under strict quarantine measures to quell increasing coronavirus cases in Cebu.

It was recently reported that two virus mutations were discovered and traced in the province.

Tourists will only need to present a valid medical certificate from a doctor and proof of pre-booked accommodation.

Visitors must also “pass symptoms checking or screening” at the point of origin or departure and upon arrival in the province.

“We will make it easier for all tourists to come [to] the province of Cebu,” Garcia said in a virtual press conference on February 19.

“Don't you dare try [put Cebu under strict quarantine] because I will not agree, and the Cebuanos will not agree that you will make our lives miserable. Don't mess with us,” she added.

“We can take care of ourselves. I will not and never again accept a lockdown. I'll fight for Cebu and Cebuanos because Cebu is moving on and moving forward.”

Garcia further said that lockdowns “don't work well” and that it “disrupt[s] the economy to the detriment of the poor.”

The decision, however, is not without controversy and it was reported that some members of the advisory of the Department of Health (DOH) are suggesting to put Cebu under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

Various provinces across the country have started opening their borders to local tourists since late last year following months of lockdown.

Local government units (LGUs) though are required, and as recommended by the DOH, to enforce measures to ensure the health safety of residents and visitors.

Primarily, tourists are mandated to present proof that they're free from COVID-19 through swab or antibody (blood) tests.

Recently, the provinces of Bohol and Surigao del Norte have said that they will accept results derived from the less invasive saliva test, giving the public more options.