DOTr apologizes, clarifies mishaps in lodging returning OFWs in quarantine vessel

DOTr apologizes, clarifies mishaps in lodging returning OFWs in quarantine vessel
Vince Ferreras, Apr 17, 2020 https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/17/DOTr-apologizes,-clarifies...

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 17) - The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday addressed issues raised by some repatriated overseas Filipino workers currently quarantined in a 2GO ship.

Some OFWs who returned from Dubai yesterday lamented on social media how they were brought to the makeshift quarantine vessel, instead of bringing them home or to a proper quarantine facility.

The DOTr clarified that it is the recruitment agency’s responsibility to manage the accommodation of OFWs in quarantine facilities.

“If such coordination was made, the OFWs, upon arrival, will board a bus to be escorted by the PCG or the PNP going to their arranged accommodation. If no accommodation was arranged for them prior to landing, that is the time that they will be brought to Pier 15,” the DOTr said in a statement.

The repatriates called attention to the cramped quarters. With bunk beds so close together, they say there was no room for social distancing.

In response, the DOTr said the beds in the ships were already built-in and part of its design.

“We would like to point out that most of the beds in the said vessel are built-in, fixed type, as part of the original ship design and configuration,” the DOTR added.

“It should be highlighted that the vessel has a 1,200-passenger capacity, but in order to ensure the observance of strict protocols on social distancing, we are only accommodating at most 400 persons,” it said.

The DOTr also clarified that the room accommodation for the repatriates are free of charge and that the P180 charge for the three meals to be prepared by 2GO is optional. It said the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority had been directed to shoulder the food expenses of the repatriates for the meantime.

“And if the person would not want to avail of the in-house meals, they also have the option to buy food and other essentials at the mini mart located also inside the vessel,” the DOTR added.

The transportation department assured that it is also addressing sanitation issues within the quarantine facility.

“We again apologize for any shortcoming, and we will see to it that we take the necessary remedial action, as we both endure and acknowledge our sacrifices amid the difficulty of our situation,” it said.