Those caught faking their RT-PCR or swab test will be declared persona non-grata and banned from entering Boracay, the town mayor said, as more tourists are caught lying about their COVID status.
Three tourists were blocked from entering the island earlier this week after they were found to have fake test documents. They were moved to Kalibo in mainland Panay Island for the mandatory 14-day quarantine, said acting Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista.
The Malay town council is working on a resolution to declare swab-test fakers as persona non grata. "Di na siya makakapasok ng Boracay, wala na yan," Bautista told Teleradyo.
As an added security measure, Bautista said Boracay hotels could soon be asked to verify the authenticity of RT-PCR results even before bookings are confirmed. Tourist arrivals are trickling in at around 400 per day, making it difficult for businesses on the island, he said.
Negative COVID-19 test results are currently one of the requirements to enter the tourist hotspot. Called the "Test Before Travel" regulation, tourists must take an RT-PCR test 48 to 72 hours prior to their travel to Boracay.
Local tourists are also asked to fill out an online health declaration form through Aklan’s website and show their confirmed booking at an accredited hotel or resort upon arrival at the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan. With recent developments though, these requirements may need to be beefed up to keep the popular tourist destination safe.
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Source: Spot PH
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