The multiple shocks that hit the Philippines, including the COVID-19 health crisis, economic activities across the country frozen by quarantine measures, devastating typhoons in November, and the global recession, has shrink the economy by around 9.5% percent in 2020, temporarily reversing gains made in poverty reduction in recent years.

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In a bid to encourage Filipinos itching to make local travel after almost a year in lockdown, new travel protocols have been announced in February 2021. 

 

A rule mandating RT-PCR test for local travel has been scrapped in the Philippines following a recent government decision. More importantly, it also scrapped the requirement to secure a travel authority document from the police and a clearance from local health authorities.

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The Philippines will also start relaxing travel restrictions for some foreigners starting also in February. However, the decision only applies to long-term visa holders.