Manila Bulletin
6,000 OFWs still stranded in quarantine facilities
Around 6,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are currently stranded in quarantine facilities in Metro Manila while awaiting their COVID-19 test results.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III stated that the number could increase if the issue between the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and PhilHealth is not resolved.
The PRC previously halted its COVID-19 testing services due to an unpaid debt from PhilHealth.
Arriving OFWs are among the sectors whose COVID-19 swab tests are taken by the Philippine Coast Guard and paid for by PhilHealth.
These OFWs are accommodated in hotels for a maximum of 3 days while waiting for their results, and are transported to their final destinations once tested negative.
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