By:
Luzcel Tuazon-Miranda

The author is a Filipina doctor based in the United States. She arrived in Manila on May 11, 2020 which is the first day when incoming commercial flights was allowed to land in the nation’s capital after about a week of closure due to the covid-19 pandemic. This is her account of her arrival. Very useful for those planning to travel to the Philippines during these crazy times.

For those curious and interested.

So, it took 5 hours before we got tested and out to immigration. It probably would have been faster but the briefing went a little bit longer than expected. There were a lot of confused people expecting to be sent home for quarantine. Apparently there was no information about the mandatory quarantine being implemented until this morning. Even our flight crew were surprised. They also had to undergo testing and mandatory quarantine. I know and agree that it’s a necessary measure but it would have helped if people were informed. A lot likely would have not pushed through with their travel plans. 

During the briefing, I inquired about the quarantine facilities and was told that the DOT representatives would have a list of accredited facilities and we just need to coordinate with them. We were given the impression that we had a choice on where to go. We were also told we will be shuttled to the hotel. But as soon as I came out of immigration, I saw people being shuttled to Savoy Hotel. It is a relatively new and reputable hotel. There was no list to choose from. But since we already made reservations at Seda Hotel-BGC, another accredited hotel, we were allowed to go under the premise that the hotel shuttle would pick us up. There was no other shuttle provided, contrary to what was said during the briefing. The hubby offered to pick us up and bring us to the hotel, with him wearing a medical-grade PPE, but they didn’t allow it. I guess they wanted to make sure that we won’t be diverted home. Makes sense. So they arranged, instead, for a “car rental” service (which was actually just an airport transport service) to shuttle us to the hotel ... at our own expense. That was okay. But when we got picked up, the driver was not even wearing a mask. 

Very important information: OFWs’ quarantine stay is covered by the government. Non-OFWs are not covered. BUT hotel rates are deeply discounted. Estimated stay is 3-5 days, about the duration of when test results are expected to come back. So be financially, emotionally and mentally prepared. 

I am now at the hotel and settled. I already had my shower, nap, lunch and dinner. Now having my tea before starting on my new Kdrama. 😊

The process was not bad. Long and tiring BUT necessary. We are the first batch. Hopefully they can improve during the succeeding days. All I can say for those who will be traveling ... these are different and crazy times. Be patient! It’s for our own good. Be prepared. Bring your own food. If you cannot keep a cool head, DO NOT travel. You’re better off at home. Be safe!