Philippine authorities will ban foreign entries from 20th March

Due to the current coronavirus situation, the Philippine authorities have decided to ban the entry of foreigners into the Philippine Islands with effect from 20th March. 

To control the growing epidemic of coronavirus, the Philippine authorities have decided to take some steps to prevent further spread of the virus while also preventing possible invasive coronavirus mutations which could worsen the current situation. This ban applies to all foreigners with a few exceptions. 

Those exceptions are granted to foreigners who are in a close family relationship with Filipinos (husband, wife or minor children) if these people travel with their Filipino family members and have a valid visa to enter the country. Furthermore, the exception applies to those who are going to provide medical care, which, however, must be approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The following exceptions can also enter the Philippine, but only if they are holders of a valid visa:

– seamen if they are part of the “Green Lanes” program

– diplomats and their family members 

The Philippine authorities have also decided to set a quota of 1500 people a day entering the country.