COVID-19: Government implements guidance, measures as country moves toward GCQ

IMPACT – HIGH

The Philippines has lifted the modified enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila, as it moves to general community quarantine (GCQ).

Key Points:

• International flight restrictions continue. Only overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Filipino citizens and their spouses and dependents, permanent residents and foreign diplomats may enter the country. All foreign nationals can leave anytime but Filipinos are not allowed to leave unless they are OFWs, permanent residents or holders of student visas in their country of destination.
• As of June 1, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has implemented an online appointment system at its main office in Intramuros, Manila, in compliance with physical distancing protocols. Only those with appointment codes will be served during their specified date and time.
• The Department of Labour and Employment has issued guidelines for AEP filing and issuance, covering the online submission process for the following steps: company registration; filing of new/renewal of AEP applications; release of AEP cards; and AEP cancellation requests. The department has also engaged a courier service for the delivery of approved AEP cards. This service will be available as of June 2. Full details can be found here.

Background: Last month, much of the country moved into GCQ, with the exception of Metro Manila, Laguna and Cebu City.

Analysis & Comments: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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