Boracay is a critical bellwether for the Philippine tourism industry. It is probably the number 1 travel destination in the country. The reopening of Boracay is important as it is seen to spearhead the gradual reopening of the rest of the Philippine’s more popular tourist destinations.
When will Boracay reopen?
On October 1st, visitors from the rest of the Philippines from areas under GCQ (general community quarantine)and lower classifications can visit the island. Back in June, Boracay was opened for regional travelers from Western Visayas only .
Is Boracay open for international travelers?
No. The Philippines remains close to foreign tourist until further notice
What is “test before travel”?
Before traveling to Boracay, travelers from GCQ and modified GCQ areas would need to have a negative RT-PCR result 48 to 72 hours prior to departure. Visitors would be advised to go on a strict quarantine immediately after a test and until the time of travel to the island.
Are the age restrictions imposed on travelers?
No. Travel to Boracay is permitted to travelers below 21 and above 60 years old with no comorbidity (those with more than on disease or condition). There used to be but it has been lifted.
Do I need to book in advance?
All visitors must have pre-arranged reservations according to Tourism USec Benito Bengzon.
Are all Boracay hotels and resort open now?
Not all. There are currently about 199 Boracay hotels and resorts representing 4,416 rooms with certificates of authority to operate issued by the DOT. Always call and check the hotels you’d like to stay on before travelling to be sure.
Good To Know
- According to Philippine government official, Boracay is well prepared to accept more tourist and that safety protocols were already put in place.
- Airlines can only fly to Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan as it is the only airport of entry in moving tourists to the island.
- A COVID-19 laboratory is operational at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital in Kalibo.
“The reopening of Boracay to new market sources signals a gathering momentum for domestic tourism all over the country. We are pleased that the BIATF and the LGUs of the Province of Aklan and Municipality of Malay have agreed to put health and safety as top priority as we carefully and safely welcome guests to the island,” – Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.
Our Take
Good to know that things are slowly but safely reopening. The COVID-19 pandemic is still amongst us so everyone should take all the necessary precaution before traveling. Stay safe everyone!