The highland town of Sagada has reopened to tourists with a new set of requirements, the Department of Tourism said Tuesday, as the omicron wave appears to be easing in Metro Manila.
Sagada, around 12 hours by car from the capital, is famed for chilly temperatures, panoramic views of clouds that blanket verdant mountaintops and locally-grown coffee.
Here's your guide for your trip to Sagada.
What are the requirements?
Tourists must bring the following:
- Vaccination cards indicating full vaccination
- Proof of registration via UMALI KAYO tourist registration portal
- Any of the following:
- Negative rapid antigen test result and official receipt of the transaction (note that this test has one-day validity and must be taken at a medical government office or hospital)
- Negative RT-PCR swab test result from a DOH-certified testing laboratory valid 48 hours since date of release
- Negative RT-PCR saliva test result from the Philippine Red Cross valid 48 hours since date of release
Minors aged 11 and below are exempted from presenting vaccination cards as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
All tourists are also required to secure at least one night minimum booking in any DOT-accredited establishents at least two days prior to arrival.
How to register?
Visit the UMALI KAYO registration portal and register at least two days prior to your arrival in Sagada.
How to go to Sagada?
Tourists cannot commute to Sagada for now. As of Jan. 7, all public transportation bringing tourists to the municipality are suspended.
Tourists driving to Sagada must take the Dantay-Sagada road when entering the municipality. They must also take the Sagada South Road when exiting.
Visitors are advised to plan their trip so their time of arrival in Sagada will be between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Will there be checkpoints?
Yes. At the Pegeo control point, tourists must present the QR Code or UMALI KAYO registration confirmation, vaccination cards or certificates, and negative COVID test result.
Tourists will also be required to undergo triage there.
Once cleared, visitors may proceed to the tourism hub to undergo orientation. They will also be given a tourist kit before they can proceed to their accommodation.
Is there a registration fee?
Yes. Tourists need to pay P100 each at the Tourism Hub or at the Tourist Information Office.
Are day tours allowed?
No. All tourists are required to stay at least one night in Sagada. Tourists wanting to pass through are also not allowed.
Where can tourists book accommodations in Sagada?
All tourists must secure lodging in DOT-accredited establishments before visiting Sagada.
Visit this page for the list of accredited accommodations at or near the town.
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