As the National Capital Region (NCR) shifted to Alert Level 3, the government has started to ease some of the quarantine restrictions. The Metro Manila Council (MMC) shorten the curfew hours from 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m., while the Department of Tourism (DOT) now allows staycation in accredited hotels in the region until the end of October 2021.
Staycation is now allowed in DOT-accredited hotels such as The Peninsula Manila
In a statement released by DOT, the government agency said that individuals of all ages may check-in for a staycation. However, only those 18 years old and above who are fully vaccinated shall be allowed to book their stay at 100 percent operational capacity. As for unvaccinated guests, they are required to present a negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) taken not more than 48 hours before check-in.
See the table below for the list of DOT-accredited staycation hotels in Metro Manila:
| DOT-accredited Staycation Hotels | |
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Furthermore, the recently imposed Alert Level 3 now allows the following various establishments to operate. Of note, a maximum of 30 percent indoor capacity is enforced for fully vaccinated individuals, while 50 percent outdoor venue capacity for individuals regardless of vaccination status.
- Meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE)
- Social events like weddings, parties, and family reunions
- Tourism attractions such as museums, parks, plazas, public gardens, and other scenic viewpoints
With the approval of staycation alongside other tourist attractions, the DOT expects a big boost to the sector. In turn, it will restore the jobs of tourism workers who were displaced due to the drastic effects of the COVID-19.
“We welcome the easing of restrictions under the current alert level. The resumption of tourism-related activities in select areas will not only aid hotels and establishments in gradually earning revenue, but will also translate into the restoration of jobs for our displaced tourism workers, especially now that the holiday season is fast approaching,” said DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.
DOT will still determine whether it can allow staycation after October 2021
Despite the lightened quarantine status for staycation, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) remains firm in imposing strict restrictions for the upcoming Undas 2021. Cemeteries in Metro Manila will be closed from October 29 to November 2. Individuals who want to visit their departed loved ones can do so before and after the said dates with 30 percent venue capacity.
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