Cagbalete Island closed amid COVID-19 fears

The local government of Mauban has temporarily closed Cagbalete Island and other popular tourist destinations in Quezon Province amid the ongoing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

According to a Tuesday report by Katrina Son on State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, the temporary closure will start from March 10 until March 23 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The order, however, may be extended or lifted earlier upon the recommendation of the municipal health officer.

Aside from Quezon, Baguio City has also cancelled the annual Panagbenga Festival due to COVID-19 fears.

Night markets and the Sunday Pedestrianization along Session Road was also suspended.

Meanwhile, amid the ongoing virus scare, Boracay offered up to 75 percent discount on hotel accommodations on the island.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier said he would push through with his scheduled visit to Boracay despite the country being under a state of public health emergency due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

His upcoming trip is part of the government's efforts to help boost domestic tourism in the Philippines and to assure citizens that the country is safe.

The Philippines has so far confirmed a total of 33 cases of COVID-19. —Ma. Angelica Garcia/LDF, GMA News