THE Department of Tourism (DOT) joined other countries in welcoming the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of the end of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on Covid-19 which is expected to hasten the recovery of the tourism industry, a sector that was badly affected by the pandemic.

In a statement, the DOT aid the unprecedented loss of life and livelihood brought forth by the pandemic caused so much suffering and upended the lives of countless Filipinos, including millions of tourism stakeholders and workers across the country. The service and sacrifice of so many have helped our country surmount one of the greatest challenges of our time, and for that, we are truly grateful.

Bearing in mind the significant role that tourism plays in helping revive our national and local economies, the Marcos Administration has begun to institute policies to fully open up Philippine tourism to the world, encourage the promotion of livelihood and the creation of jobs, and usher in the influx of investment, so tourism may benefit as many Filipinos as possible, it said.

“The end of the pandemic signals hope that tourism in the Philippines will continue to thrive and transform
into the powerhouse that it can be fueled by the hard work, distinct hospitality, love and warmth, and pride of place of the Filipino people”.

The WHO announced on Friday that COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency of international concern.

WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’ decision was made following a recommendation by the organization’s COVID-19 emergency committee.

The committee highlighted the decreasing trend in deaths and hospitalizations, and the high levels of population immunity against SARS-CoV-2 as reasons for ending the PHEIC.

Tedros however stressed COVID-19 remains a global health threat saying the new status doesn’t mean that countries should let down their guard.

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Cristina Lee-Pisco