Puyat sees tourism boost after NCR placed under Alert Level 3

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday welcomed the government’s decision to ease COVID-19 restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR) beginning October 16, saying this would help restore jobs in the pandemic-hit sector.

“The resumption of tourism-related activities in select areas will not only aid hotels and establishments in gradually earning revenue, but will also translate into the restoration of jobs for our displaced tourism workers, especially now that the holiday season is fast approaching,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said in a statement.

Under Alert Level 3, several establishments will be allowed to operate at 30% indoor venue capacity only for fully vaccinated individuals and 50% outdoor venue capacity, provided that all employees are fully vaccinated.

Puyat said that establishments allowed to operate under Alert Level 3, such as restaurants, venues for MICE and social events, and tourist attractions, may operate at 30% with an additional 20% capacity, since NCR has met the requirement of at least 70% vaccination for senior citizens and those with comorbidities, and another 10% operational capacity if they have been granted a Safety Seal by the government.

Specialized markets of the tourism department such as staycations shall be allowed at 100% operational capacity, she added.

“This is also very timely, knowing that that the holiday season is fast approaching. Family gatherings are part of the Filipino culture, which makes this an important period for leisure travels and bookings,” Puyat said.

Only DOT-accredited staycation hotels with Safety Seal certification will be allowed to accommodate staycation guests. However, only those 18 years old and above who are fully vaccinated shall be allowed to book their stay. 

Alert Level 3 will be imposed over Metro Manila from October 16 to October 31, unless earlier lifted or extended by the government.  — Richa Noriega/VBL, GMA News