MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has ordered a tight watch of all the country’s airports and seaports in the wake of a new coronavirus threat (nCov19) from Wuhan, China, that already left 17 people dead and over 500 infected. In a statement Thursday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Secretary Arthur Tugade has directed people manning the entry points to be extra vigilant in monitoring arrivals of tourists. Wuhan’s local government has already advised people not to travel to their area, with outbound flights and trains already canceled. Earlier, Pan Pacific Airlines also told the operator of the Kalibo International Airport that it would also suspend flights to Wuhan. “In addition, the posting of public advisories informing about coronavirus infections and the strict monitoring of suspected passengers are also being enforced,” they added.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 23, 2020 09:45 UTC