This Week in Palawan (February 13 to 19, 2022)

The Alert Level 3 status of Palawan is still effective until February 15, as the Inter-Agency Task Force has yet to update Palawan’s alert level status as of writing.

However, the IATF is looking at the possible de-escalation of the alert level status of Palawan from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2. In recent updates, Puerto Princesa in Palawan can still be considered a high-risk area because of the continuing rise in cases. [1]

Puerto Princesa’s travel requirements and health protocols for inbound travelers are still effective until February 15, following these guidelines.

A rapid antigen test result must be complied with for the fully vaccinated, taken 24 hours before the departure date. While the partially vaccinated or unvaccinated would need to present an RT-PCR test result taken 48 hours before departure. The tests are validated upon check-in at the airport.

Returning residents should book their flights from Monday to Friday only for the flight schedule. An S-PaSS application is also not required for individuals aged 17 and below.

Meanwhile, for Palawan returning residents and authorized person outside residence (APORs) who are fully vaccinated, travel requirements for Palawan returning residents is proof of residency or any identification card with an address in Puerto Princesa Palawan, or a barangay certificate. For the APORs, travel requirements are a company or travel order, a vaccination card or a vax cert, and an airline ticket.

Once these requirements are complete, they can now register to S-Pass.PH and apply for a travel coordination permit and attach all the requirements as mentioned earlier. The antigen and home quarantine forms will be filled out upon arrival at the Puerto Princesa airport. Returning residents should also comply with the mandatory home quarantine for seven days. And for the APORs, the same quarantine rules apply, plus mandatory antigen testing on the 5th, 6th, or 7th day upon arrival.

Then, the exact travel requirements are needed for Palawan returning residents and APORs who are partially vaccinated and unvaccinated. Then after the S-PaSS registration, an RT-PCR test result taken 48 hours before the departure date is required. Quarantine for both returning residents and APOR is mandatory. They shall be quarantined at a hotel or quarantine facility or in a barangay quarantine for seven days at their own expense. APORs shall undergo mandatory antigen testing on the 5th, 6th, or 7th day upon arrival. [2]

Travel is still lenient in Palawan, but the government and health sectors prioritize public health since active cases are still rising.

On a brighter note, Palawan, among other iconic spots in the country, still attracts local and international tourists. The new policy of accepting foreign travelers bound for the Philippines, which took effect on February 10, has positively impacted tourism and businesses.

This Valentine’s, shopping stalls and marketplaces have started to sell gifts that people can give to their loved ones and special someone this Valentine’s Day. Big and small business establishments in Palawan have started selling all kinds of presents and gift ideas, especially in Puerto Princesa.

Malls, dine-in restaurants, and recreational establishments ideal for Valentine’s dates remain open but are closing at early hours since Palawan is still under Alert Level 3. However, you can still have your luncheons, early dinners, or even quick snack dates at your go-to shopping malls. Robinson’s Place in Puerto Princesa is open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Chinatown Center Palawan also in Puerto Princesa is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM; NCCC Mall Palawan hours are from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM; SM City Puerto Princesa opens from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM; Rengel Shopping Center hours are from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM; Massway Shopping Center from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM; and NCCC San Pedro opens from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Visit Yoorekka Magazine for more travel and COVID-19 updates and guidelines in Palawan!