12,600 OFWs to return to HK, undergo quarantine

More than 12,600 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are expected to return to Hong Kong soon and will undergo mandatory quarantine measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Philippine Consul General Raly Tejada stated that the arrival of these OFWs is being coordinated with Hong Kong authorities, employers, and recruitment agencies to ensure adherence to quarantine protocols for their safety.

The incoming OFWs comprise 7,907 newly hired workers and 4,755 previously terminated workers who have secured new employment.

Employers and recruitment agencies have committed to covering the expenses and responsibilities associated with the 14-day quarantine period for the arriving OFWs.

Tejada praised Hong Kong's effective response to the pandemic, noting their prompt closure of public places, isolation of positive cases, and implementation of contact tracing, drawing from their experience with SARS.

Hong Kong has recorded a total of 1,178 COVID-19 cases, with 1,083 recoveries and only 6 deaths, according to Worldometer.

In addition to facilitating the return of OFWs, the consulate is also arranging the repatriation of approximately 250 Filipinos who lost their jobs due to the pandemic, with a flight to Manila expected within the next one to two weeks.