Duterte imposes temporary travel ban from China, HK, Macau

President Duterte has agreed to implement a temporary travel ban on all nationalities traveling from China, including its Special Administrative Regions Hong Kong and Macau, except for Filipino citizens and Permanent Resident Visa holders.

The ban applies to individuals arriving directly from these areas, or those who have traveled to China, Hong Kong, or Macau within the preceding 14 days.

Airlines and shipping agents are tasked with screening passengers before boarding to prevent the entry of individuals who have visited the affected regions.

Filipino nationals and Philippine permanent resident visa holders are allowed entry but will undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Filipinos are also temporarily prohibited from traveling to China and its Special Administrative Regions.

The inter-agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has been granted the authority to extend the ban to other areas if necessary.

Senators welcomed the travel ban, with some urging health authorities to track suspected coronavirus carriers and prevent the spread of the disease.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo assured the public that the directives are geared for the safety of countrymen and will last until the danger has ceased.