Objectives of the Rules
- Ensure maximal protection against international disease spread while minimizing interference with trade and travel.
- Standardize quarantine functions for both international and domestic operations.
- Define measures for public health emergency response at points of entry.
- Establish penalties for violations to protect public health in compliance with IHR.
- Prescribe guidelines for use of quarantine income to support operations.
Scope and Coverage
- Applies to all conveyances, crews, passengers, and cargo arriving or departing points of entry in the Philippines.
- Applies to both government and private entities.
- Bureau of Quarantine authorized to issue quarantine-related documents such as certificates and bills of health.
- Bureau sets sanitation requirements for conveyances, wharfage, anchorages, airports, and seaports.
Implementing Mechanism
- Surveillance and infection control measures implemented at points of entry.
- Technical assistance, supervisory and advisory services on health and sanitation.
- Medical examination of aliens for immigration purposes.
- Provision of vaccination requirements for international travel.
- Supervision and control of food safety and sanitation at ports, airports, and inter-island vessels.
- Bureau authorized to use at least 50% of quarantine-generated income to fund operations, subject to accounting and auditing rules.
- Stiff penalties mandated for violations to safeguard public health security.
Repealing Clause
- This Administrative Order rescinds AO No. 186 (2004) and any inconsistent prior issuances.
Effectivity
- The Order takes effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.