The province of La Union in the Ilocos Region is open to tourists, with strict adherence to safety protocols and travel guidelines.
Leisure travel to and from the NCR Bubble—Metro Manila, Bulacan, Laguna Cavite, and Rizal—can resume starting June 1, the Department of Tourism said.
Those looking to visit the surfing hub can do as long as requirements are submitted and health protocols are followed.
Here's what you need to know before heading for La Union:
Before travelling
Lodging
Only DOT-accredited La Union businesses and establishments are allowed to accommodate non-resident guests. For a list of accredited travel and tour operators, vist the La Union website.
Negative RT-PCR test
Regardless of where you're coming from, all tourists are required to present a negative RT-PCR test result within three days prior to arrival in La Union.
Saliva based RT-PCR test result issued by Philippine Red Cross is accepted as an alternative to Nasopharyngeal Swab RT-PCR test.
Travel request
Prior to arrival, guests must apply for a travel request through the Tara Na! VISITA portal.
Approval or denial of travel applications will be processed on Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Approval is processed within 48 hours.
Once you've received approval, save or present your unique QR Coded Tourist Pass (QTP).
Age restrictions
La Union will only accept tourists aged 15 to 65 years old. Your place of origin may allow kids and senior citizens, but La Union still has age restrictions.
Limited capacity
Only a maximum of 700 registered tourists per day shall be allowed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Establishments will cater only 50% of the allowable capacity in adherence with social distancing rules.
When you get there
Upon arrival, present your QTP at the Tourism One-Stop-Shop for verification. There you will be granted a Tourist Access Pass (TAP) valid for your entire stay.
Guests are required to strictly follow their itinerary and present the QTP and TAP in every accredited tourism establishment. No QTP and TAP, no entry.
Always comply with minimum health standards such as wearing of face mask and shield, physical distancing, and frequent disinfection.
When it's time to leave
Check out at the Tourism One-Stop-Shop by presenting your QTP and TAP.
Visitors are advised to go straight home after travel.
What about tour extensions?
In case you're extending your stay, you must coordinate with your travel agency and re-register for another travel application via the Tara Na! VISITA System.
Save or print the new QTP for updating of travel details.