BACOLOD City – The city of Sipalay in Negros Occidental has allowed accommodation establishments such as hotels, resorts and inns to operate at 100 percent capacity.
The development is in line with Executive Order 2021-005 issued by Mayor Maria Gina Lizares extending the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) in the city until March 31.
“Strict implementation of minimum health protocols and guidelines shall be observed such as social distancing, wearing of facemask, frequent hand-washing and coughing etiquette,” the directive stated.
For now, only Bacolod City and Negros Occidental tourists are accepted for leisure travel.
Tourists are required to register online and fill out a travel form.
To be allowed entry, non-resident tourists must travel in private vehicles, as travel via public transport is not allowed, and must enter through the Cartagena and Nabulao borders only.
Also, day visits, trips, or excursions of non-residents are allowed at the Poblacion beach only. Island-hopping is only for checked-in non-resident tourists.
At the Campomanes beach, only a maximum of 80 persons are allowed at any given time, and it is excluded from island-hopping activities.
Non-residents are also prohibited from holding mass gatherings and events, including but not limited to weddings, baptisms, birthdays, and parties.
On Nov. 6, Sipalay lifted its moratorium on tourism-related travel and reopened its doors to tourists under strict health and safety protocols.(PNA/PN)
