Duterte orders arrest of tourists with fake swab results

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has ordered law enforcement agencies and local governments to arrest travelers using fake COVID-19 test results and to ensure that health protocols are followed in tourist destinations.

“Recently, the government has allowed leisure travel from NCR (National Capital Region) Plus to areas under modified general community quarantine. However, it has come to my attention that some travelers arriving in various parts of the country, most notably in Boracay, are presenting fake COVID-19 tests,” Duterte said during a pre-recorded public address on Monday.

“I am also directing the Department of Tourism, Philippine National Police and local governments to arrest those presenting fake COVID tests. Do not be afraid to file sanctions,” he added.

NCR Plus is composed of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite and Rizal and has a total population of about 23 million.

Duterte asked travelers not to present fake COVID test results.

“It will also cost you money. Kindly check at least twice over whether or not you have the genuine certificates,” the President said.

The government has allowed interzonal travel from NCR Plus areas to places under MGCQ, the most relaxed quarantine classification, to revive the pandemic-stricken economy.

Travelers will be subject to restrictions imposed by local governments of their destination.

The tourism department has urged travelers to be responsible and to ensure the safety of the communities in their chosen destinations.

Cebu Pacific is helping its passengers with the high cost of COVID-19 tests as part of the budget carrier’s efforts to help spur air travel demand.

Cebu Pacific is now offering the cheapest RT-PCR test at only P2,500.

The special rate is solely for passengers booked on Cebu Pacific and Cebgo. – Richmond Mercurio, Rudy Santos, Elijah Felice Rosales