Answer: (June 30, 2020)
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque told the Inquirer on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 that the sender and his family cannot come home yet since Saudi Arabia is still under lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the event Saudi lifts its lockdown, Roque said the way for the sender and his family to come home for free is if the government will charter a flight for returning overseas Filipino workers like him. “Otherwise, its (the sender’s) employer that should pay since its in the standard POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) contract,” he said. Roque said their return home to Surigao del Sur may be free of charge “if we were still on general community quarantine when he arrives here and there are still no flights.” “Otherwise, the employer should pay,” he added.
Answer: (June 16, 2020)
When a worker tests positive using a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), considered the gold standard in COVID-19 testing, the returning employee will be considered a COVID-19 case and shall be brought to a hospital to be treated, isolated and referred accordingly for appropriate management, as provided for in the Department of Health Department Memorandum 2020-0220. Contact tracing will then ensue so that all close contacts will be isolated and tested using RT-PCR as well. Employers must then report the test results to DOH and continue to strictly follow daily preventive measures in the workplace, which include screening and monitoring of employees’ health conditions, accomplishment of daily health symptoms form, monthly reporting of illnesses and visitors’ health checklist form. You can find the forms and guide in this link: https://www.dole.gov.ph/php_assets/uploads/2020/05/DTI_and_DOLE_InterimGuidelinesonWorkplacePreventionandControlofCOVID19__3.pdf.
Check the DOH memo as well for further information: https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/health-update/dm2020-0220.pdf
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1276641/virus-tests-not-needed-for-returning-workers
Answer: (June 4, 2020)
Upon return home, you will have to undergo quarantine in government isolation facilities or hotels accredited by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ). According to the Covid-19 Sub-Task Group for the Repatriation of Overseas Filipino Workers, the quarantine is now mandatory and this will last until all repatriated OFWs and non-OFWs receive their RT-PCR test results proving they are negative for Covid-19. https://globalnation.inquirer.net/188062/repatriated-filipinos-required-to-undergo-quarantine-in-govt-facilities/
Attached here is the list of facilities for stringent and mandatory quarantine, as outlined in the May 13, 2020 advisory of the Civil Aeronautics Board and which was posted in the website of the Philippine Embassy in Norway and Iceland. https://www.philembassy.no/newsroom/covid-19-public-advisory-no-29-list-of-facilities-for-quarantine-for-overseas-filipinos
Answer: (June 4, 2020)
Limitado pa rin po ang paggalaw ng mga tao sa lugar na deklarado ang general community quarantine (GCQ). Ayon kay Police Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, chief of the Joint Task Force COVID Shield, limitado pa rin ito sa pagbili ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan at sa mga pinayagang makapagtrabaho. Kung lalabas man po kayo, palaging dalhin ang mga dokumento na magpapatunay na kayo ay may scheduled na appointment para sa inyong medical examination at iba pang requirements na hindi kinakailangang i-proseso ng online. Magdala ng ID para sa checkpoint, na atib jat Eleazar, ay maaaring tingnan Please also bring a valid ID with your address to be presented at checkpoints,
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1283333/gcq-no-reason-to-relax-travel-restrictions-pnp
Answer: (June 3, 2020)
Maaari kang lumabas para makapasok sa trabaho. Base sa guidelines, ang mga indibidwal na 20 pababa at 60 pataas ay pinapayuhang manatili sa bahay sa ilalim ng modified enhanced community quarantine. Pero meron namang mga exempption, lalo na yung mga kailangan makabili ng kanilang kailangan at makapasok sa trabaho na pinayagang mag-operate. Ihanda lang ang inyong company ID na maipapakita sa checkpoint. Ang nasabing guidelines ay parehas lang na ipatutupad sa ilalim ng general community quarantine na nagsimula noong Hunyo 1, na aplikable sa Metro Manila, Davao City, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Pangasinan and Albay.
Sources: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/05may/20200515-omnibus-guidelines-on-the-implementation-of-community-quarantine-in-the-philippines.pdf
and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1282698/duterte-approves-metro-manilas-shift-to-gcq-starting-june-1
Answer: (June 2, 2020)
In its Department Order No. 35, the Department of Public Works and Highways required only construction personnel to be tested for COVID-19. This does not include those in the engineering business, such as geodata specialists. But your company must strictly comply with the health protocols ang preventive measures issued by different agencies. On April 30, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued Interim Guidelines on Workplace Prevention and Control of COVID-19. On May 11, the Department of Health issued Interim Guidelines on the Return-to Work. Both guidelines do not require employers to have their staff tested before they return to work. Both guidelines, however, mandate employers and employees to strictly follow daily preventive measures in the workplace, which include screening and monitoring of employees’ health conditions; bringing suspected COVID-19 patients to the hospital; accomplishment of daily health symptoms form, monthly reporting of illnesses and visitors’ health checklist form.
Sources: https://www.dole.gov.ph/php_assets/uploads/2020/05/DTI_and_DOLE_InterimGuidelinesonWorkplacePreventionandControlofCOVID19__3.pdf
https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/health-update/dm2020-0220.pdf
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1273065/read-guidelines-for-resumption-of-construction-projects-in-gcq-areas
https://pcoo.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Spox-Final-Briefing-Deck_13May2020.pdf
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/sites/default/files/issuances/DO_35_s2020%20updated2.pdf
Answer: (May 28, 2020)
Sa press briefing nitong Martes, May 26, 2020, sinabi ni presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, na ang mga employers ay may obligasyon na mag-provide o magbigay ng shuttle o transportasyon para sa kanilang mga empleyado nang walang bayad. Hindi rin naman inoobliga ang mga kompanya na muling magbukas, kaya nararapat na sila ang gumastos ng bayarin para sa shuttle ng kanilang mga empleyado kung nais nilang magbalik operasyon, ayon pa kay Roque. Nangangahulugan na hindi kayo dapat pagbayarin ng inyong kompanya para sa inyong shuttle service papunta ng trabaho at pauwi ng bahay.
Sources: https://www.facebook.com/pcoogov/videos/570279737243997 and https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/05may/202200522-omnibus-guidelines-on-the-implementation-of-community-quarantine-in-the-Philippines.pdf
Answer: (May 18, 2020)
Families of distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are among the target beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) social amelioration program (SAP), whose first wave’s deadline for distribution was last May 10. DSWD reiterated that families of OFWs who were repatriated, who have no income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or those who were banned from traveling outside the Philippines or stranded should benefit from SAP.
Another financial assistance program for OFWs is the DOLE-AKAP, a one-time cash aid worth P10,000 given to land-based and sea-based OFWs whose employments were affected by the pandemic. Go to https://polotokyo.dole.gov.ph/news/dole-akap-for-ofws-department-order-no-212-series-of-2020/ for more details and to know the application process.
Sources: https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/ofws-displaced-by-covid-19-to-get-10k/;
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1272849/no-more-deadline-extension-for-sap-distribution-says-dilg and
https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/ofws-displaced-by-covid-19-to-get-10k/
Answer: (May 14, 2020)
You may contact the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) at its HOTLINE 1349 for specific procedures concerning the placing of employees on floating status. However, based on existing rules, employers are allowed to place an employee on floating status under legitimate circumstances and for a period of not more than six months. Beyond this period, floating status becomes constructive dismissal which entitles the employee to separation pay. Further, DOLE says that a notice is sent to the Regional Office of DOLE in cases of termination for an authorized cause or dismissal.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III had previously said that employees cannot be forced to report for work during enhanced community quarantine. He also encouraged employers to implement alternative work arrangements.
Sources: https://blr.dole.gov.ph/2014/12/11/termination-of-employment/ and https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1096967
Answer: (May 4, 2020)
Private companies are not required by the government to grant hazard pay to its workers during the enhanced community quarantine. But according to Administrative Order No. 26 signed by President Duterte, private hospitals and health facilities are “strongly encouraged” to give hazard pay to their health workers and staff. The same order mandates national government agencies, local government agencies, executive, legislative and judicial branches of government, to grant hazard pay, worth P500 per day, to its personnel who physically report for work during the ECQ.
Source: officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/03mar/20200323-AO-26-RRD.pdf
Answer: (May 2, 2020)
The statement of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat that international travel may still be unavailable within the year is not a travel ban but only a possible scenario for the tourism industry given that there may still be travel restrictions in other nations. Even with enhanced community quarantine in place, overseas Filipino workers are allowed to leave for abroad provided that they show proof of their itinerary and other documents to support their travel. What is not allowed is travel for leisure or tourism purposes.
Sources: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/187377/fwd-international-travel-might-not-yet-happen-within-the-year-puyat and
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243983/ofws-foreigner-allowed-to-leave-ph-anytime-despite-quarantine
Answer: (May 2, 2020)
The resumption of work in prosecution offices in Metro Manila will depend on the lifting of the community quarantine. It has not been determined if the enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila will remain or will be modified after May 15. Please keep posted for updates and announcements of corresponding guidelines.
Answer: (April 29, 2020)
Inatasan na ng pamahalaan ang Overseas Workers Welfare Administration noong Marso 22, na maghanda ito ng lugar na pagdadalhan gaya ng mga hotel sa mga magsisiuwing overseas Filipino workers para sa kanilang pansamantalang akomodasyon habang sila ay isasailalim sa mandatory quarantine sa ilalim ng ipinatutupad na enhanced community quarantine.
Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097424
Answer: (April 28, 2020)
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority told the Inquirer it was unaware of tourists landing in Clark because there are no commercial flights landing there due to the enhanced community quarantine that will last until May 15. But government quarantine facilities such as Clark provide free accommodations for overseas Filipino workers who are repatriated and will need to undergo mandatory tests and quarantine.
Answer: (April 28, 2020)
The latest information from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration is that it was seeking the help of local government units outside Metro Manila and the Philippine Air Force to help facilitate the return of overseas Filipino workers to their home provinces. OWWA made the appeal last Monday for LGUs, especially in the Visayas and Mindanao, to fetch their constituents who are stranded in hotels in Metro Manila due to the Luzon lockdown.
Source: https://www.newsinfo.inquirer.net/1265162/owwa-to-lgus-fetch-stranded-ofws
Answer: (April 22, 2020)
Philippine National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac told the Inquirer that the sender cannot go to Manila and Paranaque to deliver the salary of his workers. The sender is not allowed to do so since he is not included in the list of authorized persons to travel. Banac advised the sender to avail of the local “padala” services so that his workers can get their pay.
Answer: (April 22, 2020)
The Department of Health (DOH) said it was still working to improve how the volunteer process will work.But it did say that it can only seek the service of doctors in the National Capital Region apparently for practical purposes. The DOH also did say doctors outside the NCR can work via telemedicine where doctors work from home advising people about their health care needs. So apparently this is the option for you in the meantime. Please check for any new information to be provided by the DOH via dohvolunteerportal.org. https://www.dohvolunteerportal.org/blog
Answer: (April 21, 2020)
If your contract ended as agreed upon earlier and not because of COVID-19, then you are not entitled to DOLE’s assistance under its COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP). The beneficiaries of CAMP are employees in private establishments which have implemented flexible work arrangements (FWAs) or temporary closure because of the new coronavirus. A worker is entitled to the P5,000 financial relief if she/he has reduction or loss of income due to the FWA (such as reduced work hours, job rotation, forced leave, etc. ) or closure of the company. Under the joint DSWD social amelioration program (SAP) meanwhile, the beneficiaries are families who belong to either the poor or informal sector which are at risk of not earning a living during the ECQ. You may be qualified to receive SAP since your contract has already expired and you cannot get a new one because schools are closed. And since your work is dependent on a contract, you fall under the informal sector workers who are entitled to receive the cash assistance.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253647/in-the-know-find-your-way-to-camp-and-sap; https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/03mar/20200328-JOINT-MEMORANDUM-CIRCULAR-NO-1-S-2020.pdf and https://www.covid19.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DOLE-DEP-ORD-209.pdf
Answer: (April 21, 2020)
Yes, if this is the flexible work arrangement agreed between the employer and employees. Under Department of Labor and Employment advisory no.4 issued on March 4, 2020, the department said reduction of workhours and/or work days as well as forced leave (with employees using their leave credits) are among flexible work arrangements that employers could consider while Luzon remains under an enhanced community quarantine that has since been extended until April 30.
Answer: (April 21, 2020)
Yes. Under Department of Labor and Employment advisory no.4 issued on March 4, 2020, it allows the implementation of flexible work arrangements in establishments in light of the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon that has since been extended until April 30. If a work from home arrangement is adopted in your workplace, you can avail of it.
Answer: (April 17, 2020)
Based on the current protocol of Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the Department of Health Region-7 and the Bureau of Quarantine will decide whether arriving international passengers will undergo a 14-day quarantine either at home or in a designated quarantine facility. Please keep posted as this is only the policy amid the enhanced community quarantine in Lapu-Lapu City and may change in May.
Source: https://mactancebuairport.com/news/mandatory-quarantine-for-arriving-international-passengers/
Question from Email: My husband is going home to Isabela province from South Korea. Is it true that he has to undergo mandatory quarantine twice? One in Manila then Isabela?
Answer: (April 17, 2020)
The Bureau of Quarantine stationed at the airport will determine if arriving Filipinos are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or in a government-designated facility. Among the quarantine facilities are the New Clark City Athlete’s Village (for OFWs), hotels in certain areas in Luzon and two private ships docked at South Harbor Port Area, Manila.
Sources: https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf and https://www.covid19.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IATF-Reso-No-18.pdf
Answer: (April 16, 2020)
All returning Filipinos shall be subjected to social distancing and quarantine procedures upon arrival at the airport. The Bureau of Quarantine stationed at the airport will determine if someone is required to undergo a 14-day home quarantine or a 14-day quarantine in a facility. Among the designated quarantine facilities are the New Clark City Athlete’s Village (for OFWs), hotels in certain areas in Luzon and two private ships docked at South Harbor Port Area, Manila.
Sources: https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf and https://www.covid19.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IATF-Reso-No-18.pdf
Answer: (April 15, 2020)
This work arrangement violates the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) guidelines as stated in its Labor Advisory no. 4 issued last March 21, 2000. In that advisory which spelled out the guidelines on the Covid-19 prevention and control at the workplace, employers were asked to consider certain work arrangements for workers whom they requested to stay at home or for workers who are served quarantine order.These included charging the workers’ leave of absence to their annual sick/vacation leave credits under the company policy or practice or as stipulated in their collective bargaining agreement, if there is any. If the worker’s leave credits have been used up, employers could consider granting of leave of absence without pay. However, employers are encouraged to exercise flexibility and compassion in granting additional leave with pay.In addition, employers and workers by mutual agreement could also agree on other arrangements for the worker’s leave of absence. So if this current work arrangement was not mutually agreed upon by the employer and workers, then this violate the labor guidelines.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=305498756452513&id=804110222946221?sfnsn=mo
Answer: (April 14, 2020)
Returning overseas Filipino workers will be subjected to social distancing and immigration procedures upon arrival at the airport. The Bureau of Quarantine will decide whether the returning Filipinos will have to go through a 14-day facility-based quarantine or a 14-day home quarantine. Those who will be asked to undergo home quarantine will have to secure a clearance from the local health office. Some 11,549 hotel rooms in Metro Manila and other provinces have been secured for the quarantine of the OFWs, according to tourism secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. The cost of the accommodation will be shouldered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, other national government agencies, the OFWs’ recruiting agencies, or the OFWs themselves, as may be applicable. Those who would be asked to do quarantine at home may avail of the “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs,” which picks up passengers from all terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to drop-off points in different routes (Dau, Turbina, Fairview, Monumento). For more information, you may contact the OWWA hotline at 1348.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1256065/hotel-rooms-for-quarantine-of-returning-ofws#ixzz6JO76KqD7; https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1254540/iatf-on-ofws and https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf
Answer: (April 13, 2020)
You may seek assistance from your local government. The national government is set to release funding to LGUs for their respective COVID-19 measures and relief efforts.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1254820/financial-aid-to-lgus-to-be-soon-released-by-dbm
Answer: (April 12, 2020)
All returning overseas Filipino workers need to undergo strict self-isolation with some mandated to undergo a facility-based quarantine while others were told to undergo a 14-day home quarantine. Upon the completion of the quarantine procedures, OFWs should get a certification of clearance from the local health office. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, spokesperson of the inter-agency task force on the coronavirus said that local governments should allow the unhampered transit of OFws that have been issued clearance or those who may be required by the DOH or LGUs to undergo a mandatory 14-day home quarantine. Those undergoing home quarantine must not leave their rooms and homes until they have been cleared by the local health officials. For those who need to undergo quarantine before going home to their families, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat said the DOT has reserved hotel rooms to accommodate OFWs. They will be confined to their single–occupancy, fully–furnished rooms, complete with sanitation and hygiene kits until the day of their discharge, as cleared by authorized Department of Health Bureau of Quarantine personnel. Meanwhile, the New Clark City Athletes’ Village continues to function as a temporary quarantine facility for repatriated OFWs.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1254540/iatf-on-ofws; https://www.tourism.gov.ph/news_features/roomsreservedforofwsquarantine.aspx; https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186504/diplomat-dies-of-covid-19-guidelines-underway-for-returning-ofws; https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253775/iatf-to-lgus-issue-ordinances-vs-attacks-on-frontliners-covid-19-patients
Answer: (April 9, 2020)
Pansamantalang naka-ban sa Qatar ang pagpasok ng mga dayuhan mula sa 14 bansa kabilang na ang Pilipinas, simula pa noong Marso 9. Wala pang anunsyo kung kailan tatanggalin ang ban. Para sa iba pang katanungan, maaari kayong mag-email sa Philippine Embassy sa Doha dito : [email protected].
Sources: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186005/qatar-temporary-suspension-of-entry-from-ph-13-other-countries#ixzz6Iz5FH4u9 and https://dohape.dfa.gov.ph/newsroom/advisories?start=10
Answer: (April 9, 2020)
Kung kayo po ay kabilang sa low-income household, maaari kayong makasama sa pwedeng bigyan ng cash subsidy sa ilalim ng “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,” na nagbibigay ng higit na importansiya sa mga mahihirap na pamilya lalo’t sila na hindi kumikita o nawalan ng trabaho. Para sa iba pang impormasyon tungkol sa nasabing programa, bumisita sa https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253647/in-the-know-find-your-way-to-camp-and-sap
Maaari rin kayong humingi ng tulong sa inyong lokal na pamahalaan. Magpapalabas na rin ng pondo ang national government sa mga LGUs para sa ayuda sa mga apektado ng COVID-19.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1254820/financial-aid-to-lgus-to-be-soon-released-by-dbm and https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/03mar/20200328-JOINT-MEMORANDUM-CIRCULAR-NO-1-S-2020.pdf
Answer: (April 7, 2020)
The government is now implementing a policy to bring home overseas Filipinos working in cruise ships in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Cabinet Secretary Karlos Nograles said in an online briefing last April 2, 2020 that the Inter-agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases has approved the interim guidelines on the repatriation of overseas Filipinos working in cruise ships. Likewise, Nograles said that a sub-technical working group has been directed to formulate guidelines to manage and ensure the welfare of repatriated overseas Filipino workers.
Answer: (April 7, 2020)
You are not qualified for the P5,000 one-time cash assistance under the Department of Labor and Employment’s COVID-19 Adjustment Measure Program as this covers only workers employed in private establishments in the country. However, you may qualify for the cash subsidy under the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,” as this targets low-income families with at least one member belonging to vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors including overseas Filipino workers in distress.
For more detailed information: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253647/in-the-know-find-your-way-to-camp-and-sap
Answer: (April 7, 2020)
All returning overseas Filipino workers are required to undergo social distancing measures, quarantine procedures and immigration procedures. The Bureau of Quarantine at the airport will decide if you shall undergo a 14-day quarantine in a quarantine facility or comply with a mandatory home quarantine, according to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The New Clark City Athletes’ Village continues to function as a temporary quarantine facility for repatriated OFWs, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles had said. The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) asked for the “unhampered transit” of OFWs who have been issued their certificate of completion of 14-day facility-based quarantine by the health or interior departments.
OFWs subjected to a home quarantine may avail of the free transport service for OFWS, “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs,” which picks up passengers from all terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to drop-off points in different routes (Dau, Turbina, Fairview, Monumento). But they must not leave their rooms/house for 14 days and should get certification of completion from local health officials to be cleared.
Sources: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186504/diplomat-dies-of-covid-19-guidelines-underway-for-returning-ofws and https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf
Answer: (April 6, 2020)
Yes, your wife may go home to Cebu province. The governing board of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) facilitates inbound flights for returning overseas Filipino workers. MCIAA General Manager Steve Dicdican had said that OFWs must be allowed to return to their respective homes within the Central Visayas region. If your wife is unable to immediately get a flight to Cebu, she will be provided with temporary shelter shouldered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. OFWs may also avail of free transportation service program, “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs,” which picks up passengers at 7 a.m., 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. from all terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to drop-off points in different routes (Dau, Turbina, Fairview, Monumento). Your wife shall also undergo appropriate medical protocols and checkup at the airport as required by the Bureau of Quarantine.
Source: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186308/dfa-253-distressed-ofws-from-kuwait-return-to-ph
Answer: (April 1, 2020)
Yes. The Overseas Welfare Workers Administration has been ordered to cover the accommodation and food expenses in hotels of stranded overseas Filipino workers in hotels during the enhanced community quarantine. The Pasay City government had said that hotels, motels and hostels in the city would be allowed to operate to exclusively accommodate OFWs. Hotel Sogo in Malibay has reportedly served as a temporary shelter for at least 14 days to at least 140 OFWs, 120 of which are sea-based workers.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1246107/pasay-hotels-to-accommodate-ofws-during-quarantine-period
Answer: (April 1, 2020)
OFWs are allowed to return to the Philippines. All returning Filipinos and permanent residents from China, Hong Kong and Macau shall be subjected to a 14-day quarantine in a quarantine facility. All other returning Filipinos and permanent residents arriving in Luzon shall comply with mandatory home quarantine. Please check with OWWA representatives at the airport for specific guidelines regarding mandatory home quarantine. The DOTr and OWWA also provide “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs” services to transport OFWs from NAIA to designated drop-off points including in Dau, Pampanga; Calamba, Laguna; and within the National Capital Region. The free-transport assistance of OWWA shall continue until the community quarantine is lifted. The OWWA hotline is 1348.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1244660/govt-letting-filipinos-foreigners-fly-out-during-quarantine-after-all#ixzz6IKehPbEp; https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1246898/stranded-ofws-get-free-rides-to-and-from-naia-during-quarantine-via-owwa-transport-service#ixzz6IKOUI4DM and https://web.facebook.com/OWWAofficial/posts/2612937002317582?__tn__=K-R
Answer: (April 1, 2020)
1. Yes, OFWs are allowed to return to the Philippines. If they are coming from South Africa, they are required to undergo home quarantine. OFWs may avail of the “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs” launched by Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The free transport service picks up passengers at 7 a.m., 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. from all terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to drop-off points in different routes (Dau, Turbina, Fairview, Monumento). For further info, visit https://owwa.gov.ph/index.php/news/central/92-announcement-libreng-sakay-para-sa-mga-ofws. If their hometown is not covered by the free transport service, OWWA was also tasked to shoulder the accommodation and food expenses in hotels, motels and hostels of stranded OFWs. The Pasay City government has ordered hotels and other similar establishments to exclusively accommodate OFWs in the city.
2. Yes, OFWs are allowed to leave the country for work. But they must comply with existing Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) processes in the issuance of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and new immigration procedures and social distancing measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Proof of itinerary and other travel and work documents must be presented at checkpoints.
Source: https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
The P5,000 to P8,000 cash subsidy for two months will be provided for some 18 million low-income families under Republic Act 11469 or the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act”. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with other government agencies, has started the process of identifying the beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the financial support for workers affected by the enhanced community quarantine—a one time P5,000 assistance—is provided under a different program by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) called COVID-19 Adjustment Measure Program. To avail of the assistance, employers must submit an Establishment Report of COVID form, which can be downloaded from the DOLE website, together with their company payroll for February or earlier, prior to the implementation of flexible working arrangements or temporary closure. On March 31, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello said workers may arrange the application among themselves and directly contact DOLE for the one-time cash assistance.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1251662/workers-may-process-p5000-cash-assistance-directly-with-dole; https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1247929/duterte-gets-powers-to-aid-poor-health-workers; https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/local-overseas-workers-assured-of-govt-assistance/ and https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098171
Private vehicles can fetch passengers from the airport as long as they show proof of travel of the person they are picking up. Only one person is allowed to pick up the passenger to observe proper social distancing. Returning Filipinos from China, Hong Kong and Macau shall be subjected to a 14-day quarantine in a designated facility. Those who came from other countries, meanwhile, must comply with the mandatory home quarantine.
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243868/dotr-on-private-vehicles-in-airports#ixzz6I8pn9SK7 and https://pcoo.gov.ph/press-briefing/laging-handa-public-briefing-hosted-by-pcoo-secretary-martin-andanar-undersecretary-rocky-ignacio-with-cabinet-secretary-karlo-alexei-nograles-department-of-agriculture-secretary-william-dar-depa/
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
(March 31, 326PM) There are no quarantine facilities for OFWs arriving in the country during the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine. When 253 OFWs were repatriated from Kuwait last March 26, 2020, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the repatriates underwent the appropriate medical protocols and check up at the airport as required by its Bureau of Quarantine. The repatriates were also reminded to observe strict home quarantine for 14 days.
Source: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186308/dfa-253-distressed-ofws-from-kuwait-return-to-ph/
Answer: (March 30, 2020)
Yes. The Overseas Welfare Workers Administration has been ordered to cover the accommodation and food expenses of returning and stranded overseas Filipino workers in hotels in Metro Manila cities during the enhanced community quarantine. The Pasay City government said that hotels, motels and hostels in the city would be allowed to operate to exclusively accommodate OFWs. Hotel Sogo in Malibay has reportedly served as a temporary shelter to at least 140 OFWs, 120 of which are sea-based workers.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1246107/pasay-hotels-to-accommodate-ofws-during-quarantine-period
Answer: (March 27 2020)
Employees of franchise stores of Jollibee Foods Corp., are not covered by the P1 billion emergency fund set aside by the fast-food giant to its employees. In a press statement last March 19, 2020, Jollibee said the employee package covers all work teams of iys offices, stores, commissaries and logistic centers, including the senior citizens and persons with disability assigned to stores under the joint employment program with local government units. This aid will also be extended to the company’s partner employers in the stores. Partner employers refer to third-party providers and that was why franchise stores are not covered.
Source: https://business.inquirer.net/292964/jollibee-sets-p1b-employee-covid-19-support-fund/
Answer: (March 27 2020)
No, your son will not be allowed to travel back to China with you. The Philippines lifted its travel ban to China on March 15 only for overseas Filipino workers (OFW). Newly-hired OFWs, tourists and students like your son are restricted from traveling to China.
Source: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186143/ph-lifts-travel-ban-to-china-for-ofws
Answer: (March 27 2020)
Following the imposition of curfew by the Saudi government due to COVID-19, the Philippine embassy in Riyadh said that urgent concerns may be conveyed to its office using the contact details in the link below. For assistance to nationals’ concerns, email [email protected] or call the landline 0114801918. A directory of embassies around the world is available in the link below for OFWs in other territories.
Sources: https://www.dfa.gov.ph/index.php/2013-03-21-05-48-17; https://riyadhpe.dfa.gov.ph/newsroom/advisories/5808-contact-details-of-the-philippine-embassy-in-riyadh-and-the-philippine-overseas-labor-offices-in-riyadh-and-al-khobar and https://riyadhpe.dfa.gov.ph/newsroom/advisories/5811-embassy-advisory-on-the-imposition-of-curfew-in-ksa
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
DOTr and OWWA helps transport OFWs to and from NAIA through their “Hatid-Sundo sa mga Stranded OFWs” service with trips at at 7 a.m.,12 nn and 6 p.m.. This is the only government transport service available to and from NAIA as of today. Here are the following routes for the “”Hatid-Sundo” service: NAIA to Dau Bus Terminal (NLEX), NAIA to Turbina terminal (via SLEX), NAIA to Fairview (via España), Fairview to NAIA (via Espana), NAIA to Monumento (via Edsa) and Monumento to NAIA (via EDSA). For more information, you may contact the OWWA hotline at 1348.
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
Following the travel restrictions due to the enhanced community quarantine for Luzon, airlines have suspended domestic flights. Because of this, returning OFWs will not be allowed to go on a connecting flight, including to Legazpi, in your case. However, transportation of OFWs from NAIA may be provided by DOTr and OWWA through their “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs” program, which transports OFWs only to specified drop-off points in Dau, Pampanga; Calamba, Laguna; and within the National Capital Region. Returning Filipinos from China, Hong Kong and Macau shall be subjected to a 14-day quarantine in a designated facility. Those who came from other countries, meanwhile, shall comply with a mandatory home quarantine.
Sources: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/03mar/20200316-MEMORANDUM-FROM-ES-RRD.pdf https://pcoo.gov.ph/press-briefing/laging-handa-public-briefing-hosted-by-pcoo-secretary-martin-andanar-undersecretary-rocky-ignacio-with-cabinet-secretary-karlo-alexei-nograles-department-of-agriculture-secretary-william-dar-depa/ and https://web.facebook.com/OWWAofficial/posts/2612937002317582?__tn__=K-R
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
OFWs are allowed to return to the Philippines. Given the lack of public transport because of the travel ban, OFWs may be transported by the DOTr and OWWA, through their “Hatid-Sundo sa Stranded OFWs” program, from NAIA to designated drop-off points in Dau, Pampanga; Calamba, Laguna; and within the National Capital Region. Returning Filipinos from China, Hong Kong and Macau shall be subjected to a 14-day quarantine in a designated facility. Those who came from other countries, meanwhile, shall comply with mandatory home quarantine
Sources: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/03mar/20200316-MEMORANDUM-FROM-ES-RRD.pdf https://pcoo.gov.ph/press-briefing/laging-handa-public-briefing-hosted-by-pcoo-secretary-martin-andanar-undersecretary-rocky-ignacio-with-cabinet-secretary-karlo-alexei-nograles-department-of-agriculture-secretary-william-dar-depa/ and https://web.facebook.com/OWWAofficial/posts/2612937002317582?__tn__=K-R
Answer: (March 24, 2020)
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) have announced that they are going to extend assistance to stranded OFWs or those who are returning or being repatriated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 15, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said that as the number of OFWs affected by the COVID-19 situation may increase, his agency requested the Office of the President a budget of P1.5 billion to assist OFWs whose employment will be affected.
Source: https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/dole-to-assist-stranded-ofws-in-kuwait-qatar-due-to-covid-19
Link: https://www.poea.gov.ph/memorandumcirculars/2020/MC-07-2020.pdf
Answer: (March 21, 2020)
According to the guidelines issued by DOLE, requirements include an accomplished Establishment Report Form and the company’s payroll (list of employees) for the month of February or earlier. The first page of the form contains general information about the establishment and the total number of workers affected. The second page should enumerate all the names of affected workers, their addresses, contact numbers, positions, titles, salaries, among others. The total number of workers listed should equal the total number of workers reported in the first page. Below is the link to the guidelines, form template, instructions on filing and directory of online submission.
Answer: (March 19, 2020)
An international travel itinerary is the proof required to allow OFWs, balikbayans and foreign nationals to leave for abroad through any ports in Luzon. They shall be allowed to leave the Philippines at any time for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine. However, the Bureau of Immigration imposed a travel ban to China last March 17, including newly hired OFWs. Only foreign nationals, returning OFWs and balikbayans are allowed to leave for China.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243983/ofws-foreigner-allowed-to-leave-ph-anytime-despite-quarantine
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