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| The DOT hailed the recent increase in foreign tourist arrivals, reaching 202,700 as of April 7, 2022. Photo for representation only. |
The Department of Tourism (DOT) applauded the recent increase in the country's latest number of foreign tourist arrivals, which reached 202,700 as of April 7, 2022.
Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat expressed her delight with the latest figures, calling them a welcome development in light of the ongoing reopening of our borders and relaxation of travel restrictions.
According to Puyat, the Philippines' consistent influx of tourists, combined with reportedly low cases throughout the country, is a good indicator of the industry's success. It has helped restore travelers' confidence in visiting the Philippines during the summer season.
Per One Health Pass's (OHP) data, foreign arrivals from the United States topped the list with 43,744 visitors since the country reopened its borders to foreign leisure tourists.
This is followed by Canada with 9,618 visitors, the United Kingdom with 9,315 visitors, South Korea with 8,440 visitors, and Australia with 8,212 visitors.
According to the Tourism Secretary, the Philippines continues to have one of the simplest and most relaxed travel restrictions as a result of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases' (IATF-EID) decision to allow the use of rapid antigen tests as entry requirements for travelers; on the condition that this is administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishments.
Furthermore, Puyat praised the IATF-EID for expanding the list of accepted and recognized national COVID-19 vaccination certificates, including Bangladesh, Mexico, Pakistan, and the Slovak Republic. —AJ Yes/Tacloban News Update