The provincial government of Pampanga will request Clark International Airport to reject international flights to prevent the spread of pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Governor Dennis Pineda said that the local government would put the entire Clark Freeport Zone under quarantine if they refuse to do so.
Foreigners will have to undergo 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
The governor also asked for the utility service providers to extend the deadline for their customers to pay bills.
The government earlier announced that all airports in Luzon would be closed by March 20. Foreigners were given 72 hours to leave the country.
However, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said late Tuesday night that it would now allow OFWs, balikbayans, and foreigners to fly out of Luzon for the entire lockdown period.
Pampanga gov’t to request Clark airport to deny int ‘l flights
“OFWs, balikbayans, and foreigners leaving for abroad through any of the ports in Luzon shall be allowed to leave the Philippines at any time for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine, provided that proof of international travel itinerary scheduled within 24 hours must be presented,” he said.
The following guidelines will be implemented:
- All persons, regardless of nationality, except for Filipino tourists, may now fly out of the country at any time.
- Inbound international passengers are allowed entry, subject to strict immigration, and quarantine protocols.
- For passengers from Italy and Iran, medical certificates of good health required should be validated by their respective embassies.
- Sweeper flights for foreign nationals to bring them to airports will be allowed to continue operations.
- Only one person is allowed to bring a passenger to the airport. The driver should carry with him/her a copy of the airline ticket of the passenger as proof of conveyance.
- Proof of international travel itinerary scheduled within 24 hours must be presented.
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration may provide transportation services to OFWs intending to leave for abroad.
As of this afternoon, Wednesday, the Philippines has 193 confirmed cases of pandemic coronavirus.