Published: December 6, 2020

After being confined in our homes for some months because of the community quarantine, it is now possible to explore the outside world again. Today, many destinations in the Philippines are starting to reopen. However, strict protocols and requirements in line with health and safety concerns are still in place. And these policies vary per destination and local government units.

On November 15, Bohol has started accepting visitors who would be visiting for meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE). Those who would attend events like weddings, reunions, anniversaries, birthdays, and similar celebrations are also allowed. This is all under the condition that there are at least 6 attendees from outside Bohol. If you will be traveling to Bohol for such events, here are the requirements and things you need to know before your visit.

Update: According to the Philippine News Agency, the province of Bohol is likely to be reopened to domestic tourists in Week 2 of December, but no exact date has been announced yet.

List of BOHOL Travel Requirements

1. Negative RT-PCR Test Result

A negative RT-PCR Test Result from a DOH accredited COVID-19 testing laboratory taken 72 hours prior to arrival is required to be allowed entry. Travelers are also advised to observe strict quarantine after undergoing the RT-PCR Test until their departure date.

In case your bookings have canceled or flight schedules were changed at the last minute, you may you may get your RT-PCR test done upon arrival in Bohol. If you do this, you would have to fill up and sign an undertaking stating that you are agreeing to undergo strict hotel quarantine while waiting for your test result.

If you will be staying for more than 5 days, you will be required to get another RT-PCR test done on the 5th day of your stay.

2. Confirmed Hotel Booking

Visitors are required to have a confirmed booking with an accommodation located in the municipality of Panglao or Dauis. The accommodation establishment should also have a Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from DOT or Ultimate Bohol Experience (UBE) Seal from the provincial government of Bohol.

3. Registration through the Bohol Tourist Registration Portal.

All travelers going to Bohol are required to register online. You may find the registration form at tourism.bohol.gov.ph. Just click the VISIT BOHOL menu and click MICE/EVENT REGISTRATION.

You will be required to enter the details of the event you will be attending, your flight, along with your personal information. After a successful registration, you will be sent necessary information and instructions through email.

You will also be provided a personal QR code that will serve as an electronic visitor’s ID. You must save this QR code on your mobile device because this will be scanned upon entrance and exit of establishments and sites.

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Fight Process When Traveling to Bohol

1. Present negative RT-PCR test result.

You must present a copy of your negative RT-PCR test result upon check in or a signed form to take the RT-PCR test upon arrival and undergo strict quarantine at a hotel until the release of the test results.

2. Scan your personal QR Code.

Upon arrival at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, you must scan your unique QR code.

Make sure that you have a copy of the QR code you received through email on your mobile device.

3. You must be picked up by a transport service.

When you arrive in Bohol, a transport service of your accommodation must pick you up. You may also pre-book a tourist transport service accredited by the Department of Tourism.

From the airport, your transport service must bring you to your accommodation immediately. Stopovers on the way to your accommodation are not allowed.

4. Follow all health and safety protocols.

Both the national and the local government have protocols for health and safety. Here are the things you need to remember:

• Wear your mask at all times.
• Scan your QR Code at the entrance and exits of establishments and sites.
• Always observe proper physical distancing.

If you are planning to explore during your stay, make sure you book with accredited tour operators, transport providers.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are children/senior citizens allowed to visit?

Yes, age restrictions are relaxed as long as they are not pregnant and don’t have any underlying health conditions.

Are there available public transportation options in Bohol?

The provincial government of Bohol advises travelers to book accredited transport providers. If you’re planning to visit attractions, you may book a tour with accredited tour operators and guides.

Where can we stay in Bohol?

Tourists are required to book an accommodation with a Certificate of Authority to operate from DOT or Ultimate Bohol Experience (UBE) Seal from the provincial government of Bohol.

Are leisure tours allowed in Bohol?

Tours are currently limited to those attending Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) and those who would attend events like weddings, birthdays, and similar celebrations.

For trips outside the hotel/resort, tourists must have a pre-arranged tour with a DOT accredited tour operators or guides. DIY tours are strongly discouraged.

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