No COVID-19 cases among 2,300 Filipinos in Libya

The Philippine embassy in Tripoli has confirmed no COVID-19 cases among the 2,300 Filipinos residing in Libya, which has recorded 65 cases and three deaths.

Filipino nationals in Libya are primarily employed as healthcare workers and in oil fields.

However, lockdown measures in Libya have stalled the repatriation of at least 40 Filipinos, with borders and airports closed.

The embassy has also received repatriation requests from Filipinos working in other African countries like Algeria.

Despite the pandemic, Filipinos in Libya face more immediate threats from the ongoing civil war, which has killed hundreds and displaced thousands.

The armed conflict has forced the Philippine embassy to relocate to safer grounds due to the high risk of becoming collateral damage.

Food packs and cash assistance have been provided to distressed Filipinos, and the embassy assures they will not be abandoned.