The Department of Health is weighing a proposal that would require foreign travelers to undergo HIV testing before being allowed entry into the Philippines, citing worries that certain forms of tourism may be intersecting with the country’s rising number of infections.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa raised the possibility during a radio interview, pointing out that several nations already enforce health-related entry restrictions for specific conditions. He noted that the Philippines is currently recording an average of 16 new HIV cases daily, with most infections detected among younger individuals.
“As of today, the Philippines logs the highest number of cases, with 16 new cases a day, most of which are the youth, and a certain percentage that I still don’t know of may be coming from foreigners infecting our locals. Our workers, before flying overseas, are required to have an HIV test. Can’t we do that?” Herbosa said.
The discussion emerged in the wake of a viral online incident involving Russian vlogger Nikita Chekhov, who drew public backlash after posting content in which he threatened to spread HIV in the country. The situation prompted heightened scrutiny from health and immigration authorities.
Following his arrest, Chekhov was placed under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration and is currently held at its detention facility while deportation proceedings are underway. The Department of Health confirmed that it administered an HIV test to the vlogger on Thursday.
According to The Manila Times, DOH spokesman Albert Domingo said the agency is not yet releasing further details on the matter, describing the proposal as “an early announcement” that has not been finalized.
