IATF OKs retroactive application of testing, quarantine protocols for int'l arrivals

The government’s COVID-19 task force has approved the retroactive application of testing and quarantine protocols for international travelers, acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles said on Saturday.

In a statement, Nograles said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) approved the retroactive application of Resolution 157, which was passed on Thursday.

Under IATF Resolution 157-E, testing and quarantine protocols for Green and Yellow List countries shall now apply to those who arrived in the Philippines on or before January 13, 2022.

“Also, the IATF clarified that foreign nationals coming from Red List countries and allowed admission in the country under existing IATF rules may enter the Philippines provided they have valid or existing visas,” Nograles said.

He said that their entry is subject to the country’s immigration laws, rules, and regulations.

Nograles earlier announced that the country has lifted the ban on the entry of qualified travelers from Red List countries, or areas with a high risk of COVID-19 infection.

“Currently, only Filipinos, balikbayan, and those with long term visas are allowed to enter the country,” Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said on Saturday. “Those holding tourist visas are still not permitted to enter." 

The Palace also stated that beginning February 16, 2022, all foreign nationals permitted to enter the Philippines will be required to show proof of full vaccination.

The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday logged another record-high 39,004 COVID-19 infections, bringing the country’s caseload to 3,168,379.

The previous highest daily case count reported was 37,207 on Friday, January 14. — VBL, GMA News