The Philippines pandemic response task force again suspended non-essential outbound travel for its citizens, due to a lack of available travel insurance providers, Malacanang said. This means only those who will leave the country for work, business, medical emergencies and humanitarian purposes will be allowed.
Those with bookings for non-essential travel as of July 20 will be allowed to leave subject to conditions set by the government, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said.
Travel restrictions in the Philippines and destination countries are two different things. While Manila allows departures for work, some destination countries don't allow entry for all types of visitors, including workers. It is best to check the updated travel advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs or its official Twitter page.
Locals leaving for abroad for business and work, medical, emergency, and other humanitarian purposes will be permitted with the necessary documents, including a Bureau of Immigration declaration on travelling risks like delay in return trip, according to a resolution from the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19.
"OFWs, students enrolled abroad and participants accepted in exchange visitor programs, permanent residents of foreign jurisdictions, and foreign nationals, may leave for abroad through any of the airports and seaports in the country," according to the resolution.
This provision is limited to countries without travel restrictions. Departing passengers can only have one companion in any port, and will be subjected to Guidelines of Returning Overseas Filipinos of the National Task Force upon return.