The province of Guimaras is slowly opening its doors to tourists but with different requirements for those coming from outside the region, according to Governor Samuel Gumarin on Wednesday.

During the Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by Secretary Martin Andanar, the governor said that tourists within Western Visayas can enter Guimaras by simply showing their identification cards and filling in a health declaration card.

However, those coming from outside the region have to follow the required quarantine of 14 days and present their negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test.

The province’s first step in opening up its tourism industry came when it hosted a Bike Fun Race with 136 cyclists in 17 categories from the province and Iloilo on Nov. 22.

It was held in partnership with the Department of Tourism Western Visayas and the Guimaras Xtreme Riders.

Gumarin said that they were “amazed to see a lot of bike enthusiasts”.

He added that proper protocol was followed during the event such as observance of social distancing and wearing of masks. They also established a hand-washing area for spectators.

Meanwhile, in a press statement, Liberty Ferrer, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Tourism Office, said that the province is now transitioning to the new normal as it embarks on hosting events that can attract tourists back to the island.

“We are very glad that after eight long months this is our first sports event and this is initiated by our young athletes. We are now transitioning to the new normal,” Ferrer said.

She, however, reminded the public that while the island province is opening its doors to travelers and tourists, it is everyone’s responsibility to uphold the minimum health standard and create a safe environment for all. (PNA)