DFA: Repatriation of distressed OFWs suspended, 16,936 sea-based workers repatriated

DFA: Repatriation of distressed OFWs suspended
Bernadette Tamayo May 3, 2020 https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/05/03/news/latest-stories/dfa-repatriat...

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) temporarily suspended the repatriation of distressed Filipinos overseas following the directive of the National Task Force Against Covid-19 restricting inbound and outbound flights.

The DFA on Sunday said “repatriation efforts were being adjusted to comply with the directives of the National Task Force on Covid-19”.

As of May 2, the DFA has repatriated 24,422 overseas Filipino workers OFWs – 16,936 of whom are sea-based and 7,486 land-based.

“OFWs will remain where they are in the meantime,” Assistant Secretary Eduardo Meñez said in a text message.
He said “many ship crew members are assisted by their manning agencies, some others register with the embassy then proceed to pick-up points or the airport when a flight is scheduled.”

“For those who may already be at airports, they will be assisted as best possible under the circumstances,” Meñez said.
“I understand that some arrivals (especially those already en route) may still come in, but after those — none are expected in the meantime save for the exceptions,” Meñez said.

He added, “Outbound flights appear to be open, all also subject to existing restrictions.”