Interagency task force issues resolution on travel ban to S Korea

A boy wearing a face mask sits on a suitcase at a railway station in Daegu on February 26, 2020. South Korean authorities reported 169 new infections, taking the overall national tally to 1,146, by far the largest outside China. (Photo by Jung Yeon-je / AFP)

MANILA, Philippines — The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease has released a resolution on the implementation of travel ban to and from South Korea due to the coronavirus disease or COVID-19.

Covered by the ban are foreigners coming from North Gyeongsang province, including surrounding Daegu and Cheongdo, subject to exemptions.

Also temporarily banned from entering the country are foreigners who, within 14 days immediately upon arrival in the Philippines, have been to North Gyeongsang, Daegu and Cheongdo.

Exempted from the ban are Filipinos including their foreign spouse and children, holders of Permanent Resident Visa, and holders of 9(e) Diplomat Visas.

The same resolution stated that travel to South Korea shall be temporarily suspended except for overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), whether returning or newly-hired, upon execution of a Declaration signifying their knowledge and understanding of the risks involved.

Also not covered by the ban are those leaving the country to study and the permanent residents of South Korea.

The task force said the guideline shall be effective immediately and subject to close monitoring within the next 48 hours and will also be subject to regular reassessment.

The country has decided to impose a travel ban to South Korea after it raised its alarm for the number of infected with COVID-19.

Currently, South Korea has the most number of COVID-19 cases outside China with 1,146, most of which came from Daegu and its nearby areas.

EDV