PHL embassy in Amsterdam helps stranded seafarers

PHL embassy in Amsterdam helps stranded seafarers
Recto Mercene June 19, 2020 https://businessmirror.com.ph/2020/06/19/phl-embassy-in-amsterdam-helps-...

THE Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands extended assistance to 13 Filipino seafarers who were stranded at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on June 15.

Initially, 12 seafarers were stranded at Schiphol when they were not allowed to board their flight to Manila, which had imposed a daily limit on passengers allowed to enter the Philippines.

After receiving information from the Filipino community about their situation, the Embassy immediately sought assistance from the Department of Foreign Affairs, particularly the Office of Migrant Workers’ Affairs and the Intelligence and Security Unit. The latter coordinated with the government authorities in Manila to ensure the immediate repatriation of stranded seafarers.

An Embassy personnel also visited the seafarers inside the airport to check on their situation and to extend financial assistance.

The next day, June 16, Philippine authorities allowed the entry of a flight carrying the 12 seafarers. Another seafarer also stranded at Schiphol Airport at about the same time was allowed to board the said flight.