Baguio, also known as the City of Pines, is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, attracting millions of visitors every year. The Philippines’ top tourist spots, without a doubt, include Baguio, which is regarded as the nation’s summer capital. Let’s look at the Baguio travel requirements, travel restrictions, and protocols that have been implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of both locals and tourists this 2023.

What to do Before Visiting Baguio

Here are the steps you need to take before your trip.

Create a BAGUIO VISITA account at visita.baguio.gov.ph.

Activate your account by following these steps:

• Complete the registration form. Enter your contact information, current address, and personal information (such as name, nationality, and birthdate).
• Upload a current picture ID and a valid ID to prove your identity. The majority of official identification documents, including voter’s IDs, passports, SSS/UMIDs, and Driver’s Licenses, are recognized.
• The Data Privacy and Consent Agreement should be read. If you concur with the terms, click Confirm.
• Check your inbox for emails. Your address will be given a verification link. You’ll be sent back to the VISITA website if you click that.
• To complete the verification procedure, log in one more time.

Schedule a visit.

Here are the following steps to schedule a visit:

• Register with your account. An illustrated menu will be shown to you.
• When you select Schedule a visit, a form will appear.
• Fill out the scheduler form. You’ll be asked for information regarding your itinerary, including your starting location, destination, mode of transportation, dates of travel, and any contacts you have in Baguio or your travel agency.
• You must complete the Health declaration form, which includes questions about your exposure history, current health (including if you are experiencing symptoms), and other clinical data. Click submit.
• If you are completely vaccinated, provide a copy of your Vaccination card/Certificate, and if not, upload a copy of your Negative test result. Click Confirm once you have uploaded the papers. It is strongly advised that you upload a copy even if skipping this step won’t prevent your registration from being processed. 
• Your application will be examined when you have finished the Health Declaration Form; this process might take up to 24 hours.
• Make contact with the hotel you reserved. Inform them that you have already booked a trip through the Baguio Visita website and are waiting.

Baguio Travel Requirements & Guidelines | COVID-19 New Normal

Philippines visitors can once more take in Baguio’s stunning attractions and picturesque mountain vistas. However, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic danger, the city has issued a list of regulations and conditions for visitors to observe and take into account before visiting the City of Pines.

1. Who is permitted to travel to Baguio?
Baguio is open to tourists who meet the travel requirements. Fully vaccinated tourists must show proof of their vaccination status, while unvaccinated and partially vaccinated adults must present a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours of arrival.  Children under 17 traveling with a parent or guardian who has complete requirements are exempt from these rules. Tourists need to register with visita.baguio.gov.ph and submit a valid ID and hotel booking to obtain a QR-coded Tourist Pass or QTP, which is required to enter the city. 

2. What are the necessary travel requirements that you have to prepare?

• Approved Baguio Visita QR-coded Tourist Pass (QTP) and confirmed schedule.
• Valid ID. Government-issued.
• Secure your vaccination card or certificate (for fully vaccinated travelers)
• Get a negative COVID-19 test result (for unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers)
• Medical Certificate stating that the traveler is not eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine, issued by the Local Health Officer.

All tourists must also follow minimum health standards, including wearing face masks, practicing social distancing, and entering only establishments with a Safety Seal

3. What rules and procedures should you adhere to while visiting Baguio?

Once in Baguio, be cautious to adhere to these safety precautions:

• Face masks and social seclusion are considered the bare minimums for wellness. Face masks are strongly advised for all locals and domestic visitors, especially when visiting public markets, malls, shopping centers, and other institutions. Additionally, travelers must maintain a distance from others and frequently wash their hands.
• Enter establishments with the Safety Seal. To safeguard the health and safety of local residents, the municipal administration has given enterprises the Safety Seal. It is advised to only go inside places that have this Safety Seal.
• Observe current city ordinances. Follow local regulations and refrain from smoking and littering when visiting Baguio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can children or other minors visit?
If they originate from places with Alert Levels 1 and 2, then yes. As long as they are accompanied by an adult who has had their vaccinations or undergone testing, minors are not needed to provide proof of either.

2. We’re traveling as a group. Does everyone need a QTP? Can we register as a group?
Each and every passenger must have their own QTP. The good news is that groups may now register. This is a brand-new function that was added to the Baguio Visita website.
One group member must register for a Baguio Visita account and set up a visit in order to accomplish this. Then take these actions:

• Navigate to the MY TRAVELS tab on the dashboard.
• Select the trip to which you want to invite friends, then press the three dots next to it.
• On the pop-up box, choose ADD COMPANION. You will be sent to the page for MY COMPANIONS.
• For each vehicle, add a vehicle or a partner. Then enter each vehicle’s or each person’s information.

3. I still have not received a QTP. It’s been days, but my schedule is still not approved. What can I do?
Make contact with the hotel that you reserved. The management of the lodging facility often authorizes QTP applications. Inform them that you have already finished the registration and schedule for the Baguio Visita and are only awaiting their permission. Send the names of every one of your traveling buddies.
If you’re not booked with a hotel, contact Baguio Visita through the following:

• (074) 446 2009 (7am – 11pm)
• 0956 572 9097 (7am – 3pm)
• 0956 572 9093 (3pm -11pm)
• 0956 572 9094 (11pm – 7am)

Tips to Keep In Mind

Here are other important notes to keep in mind.

• You must book your visit in advance since there are restrictions on the number of visitors per day.
• No QTP, no entry! When you register for or arrange your visit, you will receive a QR-coded Tourist Pass, or QTP. No walk-ins or registrations made on-site. Travel only after receiving a QTP.
• Follow all health and safety rules within the city to ensure the safety and well-being of both locals and tourists.  – WhatALife!/Jayve

Sources: (1), (2)

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Also read: Baguio COVID-19 Travel Requirements in 2022