IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The Bureau of Immigration confirmed Monday that the country’s coronavirus-related entry restrictions apply to travelers from Taiwan.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals will not be able to enter the Philippines if they have been to mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan in the past 14 days. The ban does not apply to Filipino nationals or permanent residents. However, individuals who are exempt will be subject to quarantine upon their return to the Philippines.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Who is affected: Foreign nationals entering the Philippines from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan.
  • Business impact: Companies will need to adjust business schedules for employees who have recently been to mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan.

Background: The Philippines expanded its entry ban earlier this month to include all parts of mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. It was initially unclear whether this ban applied to travelers from Taiwan as well, but the Bureau of Immigration authorities confirmed Monday that it does.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should be aware of the expanded entry ban. The response to the coronavirus is evolving rapidly, and Deloitte will alert clients to additional changes or restrictions as information becomes available.

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