49 Filipinos in western Saudi Arabia contract COVID-19, 5 deaths confirmed

The Philippine Consulate in Jeddah has confirmed 49 Filipinos in western Saudi Arabia have contracted COVID-19.

Overall, 119 Filipinos have been infected with COVID-19 in the kingdom, with five deaths.

Consul General Edgar Badajos advised the Filipino community to remain vigilant despite the partial lifting of the curfew for Ramadan, as the crisis is not yet over.

The partial lifting of curfew is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting Sunday until May 13, allowing the opening of some economic and commercial activities from the sixth to 20th day of Ramadan, though the 24-hour curfew in Mecca and previously isolated neighborhoods remains.

Badajos acknowledged the challenging situation in Saudi hospitals, which are prioritizing COVID-19 patients, impacting those with non-essential illnesses.

Many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Jeddah and surrounding areas have been affected by the 'no-work, no-pay' policy due to the suspension of establishments.

The consulate and Filipino community leaders initiated a food drive, distributing over 3,000 food packs to distressed OFWs.

Filipino health workers are serving as frontliners in Saudi Arabia's fight against the pandemic.