THE Province of Guimaras will implement more relaxed protocols for coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccinated inbound travelers to the island effective August 1, 2022.
Governor JC Rahman Nava signed Executive Order 48, series of 2022, modifying the border control measures implemented in the island province as the coronavirus transmission remains at minimum and manageable levels.
Under the new protocols, non-residents traveling from outside Western Visayas must present a vaccination card or a certificate indicating that they have completed the primary series of Covid-19 vaccination and must fill out the Health Declaration Form upon entry to the province.
Non-residents who are traveling from within Western Visayas will be able to enter the island without having to fill out a Health Declaration Form if they can present a vaccination card.
Also, all returning residents traveling from outside or within Western Visayas shall fill out only the Health Declaration Form if he/she fails to present a vaccination card.
The Provincial Government has also extended the period of operation of sea vessels plying the Guimaras-Iloilo route, vice versa.
Passenger vessels can now operate from 5 a.m. until 10 p.m., while Ro-Ro vessels may operate from 3:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Other non-passenger or cargo vessels may operate from 5 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Meanwhile, all vessels transporting patients for emergency medical referrals shall not be impeded and vessels carrying fresh and perishable cargoes/goods will not be subjected to further restrictions.
The purpose of the new border policy is to gradually recover the economy of Guimaras from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. (PR)