Govt ready to repatriate 500 Filipinos from Grand Princess cruise ship

The Philippine government is ready to repatriate over 500 Filipinos aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship docked off the coast of California, which is under quarantine due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo stated that the government will provide assistance for their repatriation if requested, similar to previous repatriations.

The Grand Princess cruise ship, carrying 3,500 people, has been quarantined after a passenger died and others showed symptoms of the virus.

Crew and passengers are advised to remain on the ship while awaiting testing for the novel coronavirus.

Panelo expressed confidence in the US government's ability to manage the health situation, noting their strong containment protocols.

This situation follows the earlier repatriation of over 400 Filipinos from the virus-hit M/V Diamond Princess in Japan, who were quarantined in New Clark City, Tarlac.

At least 80 Filipino crew members from the M/V Diamond Princess had previously tested positive for COVID-19.

The government also facilitated the return and quarantine of 30 Filipinos from Wuhan, China, who were later cleared of the virus.