Balabac authorities have reminded individuals planning to travel that they need to obtain a health certificate from the municipal health office before they are allowed to board ferry vessels departing from the pier, including those who are stranded.
According to IATF Balabac vice-chairman Mitra Tanjilani, a health certificate is a requirement to allow them to exit Balabac to Buliluyan, Riotuba, or Puerto Princesa. He explained that it is a health safety measure in case contact tracing will be done.
“Noong luwagan ang byahe, tayo sa Balabac, ni-require pa rin natin ang health certificate sa lahat ng lalabas mula sa Balabac. Hindi sila papayagang makasakay sa pier kung walang certificate coming from rural health unit,” Tanjilani said.
The Coast Guard Balabac Station, in a separate interview Saturday, said they will require a health certificate from departing passengers, in addition to ensuring that they follow the minimum health standards including physical distancing and the wearing of face masks.
“Tuloy-tuloy ang biyahe dito sa pier ng Balabac. We see to it na lahat ay may health certificate lahat ng sasakay yan din ang protocol sa amin ng MDRRMO at Municipal IATF COVID-19 Balabac” Sn1 Alnur Imlani, Coast Guard Balabac Station, said.