Test Boracay workers, Aklan LGU told

MANILA, Philippines — Saying Boracay should remain free of the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has urged the provincial government of Aklan to test workers on the island resort.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said a P10-million budget allocated by the Tourism Promotions Board from its special contingency fund is intended for the swab testing of workers in Boracay.

“The DOT also reminds tourism establishments, workers and guests in Boracay to strictly follow health and safety protocols to keep the prime destination COVID-free,” Puyat said.

She issued the reminder after an employee of a hotel in Boracay tested positive for the virus.

“The DOT-Boracay unit works in close coordination with Malay authorities for the strict enforcement of entry protocols for the effective detection, isolation and treatment of confirmed cases,”Puyat said.

“Pre-registration, test-before-travel and QR code issuance are part of the first line screening to keep guests and residents protected, “she said.

The DOT said it would continue to work closely with local government units in ensuring that health and safety protocols are complied with in line with reopening of tourist areas.

Boracay reopened its doors to local tourists, including those from Metro Manila, on Oct. 1.

Data from the Malay municipal tourism office shows that 6,385 tourists, most of them from Metro Manila, arrived in Boracay from Dec. 1 to 19.