Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is urging the Inter-Agency Task Force to review its travel policies for fully vaccinated individuals.
“For the sake of our economy, I beg our decision makers to listen… Set up prudent policies that are very supportive of our economy, kasi wala namang silbi ‘yung maglockdown tayo, zero COVID, pero patay naman ang ekonomiya natin,” PAL President Gilbert Sta. Maria said in a virtual forum.
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“What we are asking for is that some reasonable restrictions be lifted and done in sync across the entire archipelago so all carriers can fly. This is important for the survival of PAL, but I’m not asking on behalf of PAL. I’m asking on behalf of everyone who needs to fly,” he added.
The flag carrier also appeals to study the possibility of shortening the quarantine period to 5 days.
“International travel is not a significant contributor to Philippine infection rate. Instead of being tested on the 5th day or 7th day, they can be tested on the 3rd day and exit quarantine facilities on the 5th day if negative,” PAL’s Senior Vice President Dexter Lee said.
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A passenger could save of up to P25,000 for shortened quarantine. This could also free up hotel quarantine facilities quickly and can lower down ticket prices.
The flag carrier wants to pilot test the protocol to travellers coming from North America. (TDT)
