There are Ilonggo seafarers who are now in Manila that have been tested positive for coronavirus infection, Gov. Arthur Defensor disclosed.
These seafarers are awaiting their trip home to Iloilo but their return was aborted after Defensor and Iloilo mayors opposed it.
Defensor, however, did not provide additional details on the infected seafarers but said he also wish to see them reunited with their families.
“We want them to reunite with their families… but what is important to us is to protect their families from getting infected,” he said.
Earlier, Defensor and the Iloilo mayors proposed that returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) be tested first before they are allowed home.
As a result, the Western Visayas Regional Task Force (RTF) Covid-19 adopted the proposal so those found negative can come home immediately.
In its resolution dated 13 April, the RTF required OFWs to submit their Covid-19 test results from their country of origin should it be available.
They are also required to undergo Covid-19 test prior to departure from their immediate point of entry.
“Only those whose results are negative will be allowed to depart and accepted in Region VI,” it said.
Only tests approved by the Department of Health shall be accepted as valid results, the RTF added.
OFWs are also required to undergo a 14-day quarantine and must be asymptomatic prior to departure from their immediate point of entry.
Defensor said he was surprised to receive information after the Holy Week that 100 OFWs were set to return home on 14 April.
It was the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) that facilitated a mercy flight for the OFWs but this was aborted.
“We like to see our OFWs home with their families but allowing them to come home at this time only increases the risk of more Covid-19 cases,” Defensor earlier said.
“The safety of their families will be put at risk, and this will further extend the deadline of our enhanced community quarantine,” he added.Balita Halin sa Kapitolyo
