One tourism worker in Boracay was confirmed to have COVID-19 while all 59 close contacts tested negative for the virus, a local official said, underscoring the need to strictly observe health protocols in the Philippines' premier tourist spot.
The worker shuttled between Boracay Island and the Aklan province mainland, increasing the risk of catching the virus, Acting Malay town Mayor Floribar Bautista told Teleradyo.
Aklan province has a P10 million fund for testing, meant to ensure that Boracay remains safe and open for tourists, he said.
ALSO READ:
Pristine Boracay Leads Tourism Reopening in Philippines
Boracay is Open, Should I Wear a Face Mask on the Beach?
Since Boracay reopened in October, the island has been operating at limited capacity, welcoming 400 tourists daily, equivalent to roughly 15 percent of pre-quarantine levels, he said.
Visitors should have a negative swab or RT-PCR test within 72 hours from arrival before they are allowed entry. They should also donwload the government's QR code which they will use extensively while in Boracay.
Aside from Boracay, Bohol, El Nido, Coron, Baguio City and Ilocos Sur have reopened to tourists under strict watch.
