The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) joins the Sub-Task Group for the Repatriation of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) specifically tasked to facilitate and implement the mandatory 14-day quarantine period of all repatriated OFWs, both land-based and sea-based.

Based on the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) Resolution No. 23 Series of 2020 issued on 13 April 2020, the Sub-Task Group is chaired by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and co-chaired by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

The PCG, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism (DOT), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) form part of said Sub-Task Group under National Task Force – Task Group on Response Operations.

For the implementation of the mandatory 14-day quarantine period, licensed manning agencies are tasked to inform their respective overseas workers of said regulation. They are also tasked to submit to the DOH the complete list of their repatriated overseas workers for evaluation.

Upon arrival at the airport, the DOTr, through the PCG, will transport the repatriates to their designated quarantine facilities, to include the quarantine ships currently docked at Pier 15, Port Area, Manila.

The DOTr, through PCG nurses and medical officers, regularly monitors overseas workers accommodated at the quarantine ships. They ensure that stringent quarantine measures are strictly observed and coordinate administrative matters. The PCG and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) also work hand-in-hand in maintaining safety and security within the vicinity.

Once the repatriates finish the mandatory 14-day quarantine period, they will be issued with clearances duly signed by DOH and BOQ, and will be coordinated with their respective licensed manning agencies for necessary transportation.

As of 16 April 2020, a total of 148 repatriated Filipino seafarers and OFWs from South Korea, Indonesia, Qatar, United States, and Taiwan are onboard quarantine ships.

Their food expenses are shouldered by their respective manning agencies, in coordination with 2GO. The number of seats at the mess hall are reduced. One table good for four people shall only be occupied by one person. Eating schedules are also strictly followed to ensure that social distancing is observed at the mess hall.

Social distancing measure is also strictly observed in room assignments. Bunk halls are utilized by assigning one person per four layers of bunk beds, with partitions. Bigger rooms that are good for eight people are also provided with partitions to be occupied by two persons. Special cabins for pregnant women and persons with special needs, and overseas Filipino families are also available for usage.

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