Duterte expands travel ban on China, HK, Macau travelers

President Duterte expanded the ban on travelers to cover anyone coming directly from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau or those who visited these areas within the last 14 days.

The travel restrictions aim to prevent the entry of individuals possibly carrying the novel coronavirus into the Philippines.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan praised Duterte's decision, stating it will help contain the virus.

The Department of Health confirmed that a 38-year-old woman from China and her 44-year-old male companion are the first two confirmed cases in the country; the man died due to severe pneumonia.

The Bureau of Immigration clarified that transiting passengers through Hong Kong or other transit points in these areas will also be denied entry.