The global Covid-19 scourge may be nearing its end as several vaccines have already shown great promise in preventing infection. However, while we await the government’s official approval for their use locally and the mass immunization necessary to prevent future outbreaks, it is important to steadfastly adhere to the health and safety protocols recommended by global and local authorities.
Making a stand in the fight against the pandemic, Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading carrier, started the 12-day pilot run of its Test Before Boarding procedure on December 3, 2020, for its flight to General Santos City. Over 290 passengers went through antigen testing just hours before their scheduled flight during the TBB launch on December 3, free-of-charge. The tests were conducted by CEB’s diagnostic lab partner, the Philippine Airport Diagnostic Laboratory, a Department of Health-accredited testing facility.
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“Today marks an important day for domestic air travel with the pilot of TBB, as testing is made more accessible because of the speed and affordability of antigen testing. This, too, is a testament of what a successful multi-stakeholder collaboration can do for our industry, and for this we acknowledge PADL, who is our diagnostic partner, and the local government of General Santos, who have been leading this process with us so we can safely and confidently start domestic air travel,” said Candice Iyog, CEB vice president for Marketing and Customer Experience.
The local government of General Santos lauded CEB for initiating the free testing program, saying it will boost the LGU’s fight against Covid-19. “This program adds a layer of protection and comfort in our effort to identify people that are infected so we can isolate and treat them. As local chief executive, it is my wish that this program succeeds. I commend CEB for coming up with this innovative program,” said General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera.
CEB’s laboratory partner shared how they were grateful and privileged to be selected for this pilot run. “We at PADL can proudly say that we are one of the safest and most efficient Covid-testing laboratories in the country. We will work together with CEB to ensure that everyone will board safely so passengers travel with peace of mind,” said Dr. Miriam “Mickey” Gonzaga, chief operating officer of PADL.
The Test Before Boarding program will be available for passengers flying from Manila to General Santos City until December 14, 2020. All those flying within this trial period will be tested before boarding at no additional cost. This meets the requirement for a negative result prior entry by the local government of General Santos, so passengers no longer need to take any other test prior to their flight.
For more information and other important advisories from Cebu Pacific, click here.
