Transport Dept tweaks rules, says foreigners can leave PH at any time despite lockdown

The Department of Transport (DOTr) announced this morning that foreigners can fly out of the Philippines any time they wish despite the “enhanced” monthlong quarantine of the island of Luzon, which includes the country’s largest air hub.

In a statement shared by DOTr Assistant Secretary Goddes Libiran, the government said that the 72-hour deadline given to foreign passengers to leave the country has been lifted.

“All persons, regardless of nationality, except for Filipino tourists, may now fly out of the country at any time,” the statement said.

After announcing that it was putting Luzon under “enhanced” community quarantine to stop the spread of COVID-19, Malacañang Palace said that all travelers had 72 hours from 12am on March 17 to leave the country, and those who failed to do so would be stuck in Luzon. Today’s announcement appears to be a complete reversal of that policy.

In addition, the DOTr said today that it is still allowing international passengers to enter the country, but they will be “subject to strict immigration and quarantine protocols.”

Passengers from Italy and Iran, two countries which have been hard hit by COVID-19, will be allowed entry into the Philippines if they can present medical certificates that have been validated by their embassies.

The Transport Department also said that groups of people tagging along to send off passengers at the airports of Luzon will no longer be allowed.

“Only one (1) person is allowed to bring a passenger to the airport and he/she must depart immediately after dropping off said person. The driver should carry with him/her a copy of the airline ticket of the passenger as proof of conveyance,” it said.

As of writing, the country has recorded a total of 187 COVID-19 cases, with 14 people dead. So far four people — two Filipinos and two Chinese tourists — have recovered from the disease.

The enhanced community quarantine declared by President Rodrigo Duterte prohibits people from leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary. Violators may be arrested by the authorities.