Coron in Palawan will reopen to tourists starting Dec. 1 as more local destinations welcome guests again after a months-long break brought about by quarantine restrictions, tourism authorities announced Wednesday.
If you're missing the island life and itching to get away, here's everything you need to know before you book that year-end trip.
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Here are the travel guidelines for Coron, Palawan:
Who can go
Filipinos aged 15 to 65 can go. foreigners living in the Philippines will also be permitted entry.
What's open
A list of establishments and activities resuming operations is available at the Coron Tourism website.
Where to stay
Only accommodations arranged with Department of Tourism certified establishments will be allowed. Tour and packages from accredited tour operators will be accepted.
What to do before your flight
- Secure a negative RT-PCR test results 48 to 72 hours before your flight.
- Present the negative RT-PCR results, roundtrip ticket, and confirmed booking itinerary.
- Register and fill up a health declaration form.
The form, along with terms and conditions are available at the Coron Tourism website. After you've filled it up, wait for your QR code, which serve as your pass upon entry and while in Coron.
Before boarding
Ensure that you have a copy of your confirmed hotel and tour bookings. Upon arrival, all tourists must undergo triage at the Francisco Reyes Airport Coron Palawan.
- If symptomatic, antigen testing will be required. This is priced at P3,500 and will be shouldered by the tourist.
- If positive, the tourist will be sent to a hotel isolation room.
- If negative, you may proceed with your trip.
Moving around in Coron
Limited movement is strictly enforced and all itineraries, trips, and activities must be coordinated with hotel staff and touring agencies. They will coordinate transportation and record every move for contact-tracing purposes.
For cars
- 50% capacity
- face mask and face shield
- physical distancing
- frequent hand sanitation
For boats
- 50% capacity
- 50% capacity for destinations
- observance of health protocols
For restaurants
- 50% capacity
- arranged reservations are encouraged
- 10 p.m. curfew
- observance of health protocols
What if you develop COVID-19 symptoms?
If you find yourself manifesting symptoms of the virus, your health must be assessed at the Municipal Health Office.
A mandatory sofia antigen test priced at P3,500 will be conducted.
If tourists test positive, they will be transferred to a designated hotel for COVID-positive patients.
If severe symptoms develop, the tourist will be brought to the Culion General Sanitarium for medication. Tourists must be prepared to shoulder the costs of their medication and accommodation bills while in Coron.
What to do when leaving
- Go directly to the airport from your booked accommodation.
- Stopovers are prohibited.
- Prepare the documents required for your destination area.
For more information, visit the Coron Tourism website.
