PH extends travel ban from India, 6 other countries until June 30

The Philippine government has extended its travel ban on travelers from India and six other countries until June 30 as a measure to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant.

The affected countries include Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque stated that the travel restrictions are part of the Philippines' efforts to maintain strict border control.

Roque highlighted the increased transmissibility of the Delta variant, as observed in other nations, necessitating continued vigilance.

Repatriated Filipinos from these countries, provided they are cleared by the Bureau of Quarantine and part of government or agency-approved programs, will still be allowed entry.

These returning Filipinos must adhere to mandatory testing and quarantine protocols, including a 10-day facility quarantine with a seventh-day swab, followed by four additional days of home quarantine.

An infectious disease expert, Dr. Edsel Salvaña, emphasized the importance of these quarantine protocols due to the threat posed by the Delta variant.