More countries in Southeast Asia are relaxing coronavirus border controls as they try to promote economic recovery.

The Philippines on Thursday started to welcome back foreign visitors, marking the end of an entry ban that had been in place for nearly two years.

Fully vaccinated travelers from over 150 countries and territories who test negative for the coronavirus are no longer required to quarantine. Officials had aimed to reopen in December but suspended the plans due to the spread of the Omicron variant.

Meanwhile in Malaysia, the government's advisory body suggested that the country fully reopen to international travelers as early as March 1.

That's despite surging daily infections, which have hit their highest level in four months.

Officials have recommended that tourists be allowed to visit without quarantines upon arrival.

Neighboring nations including Thailand have also waived quarantine requirements.