PH health worker deployment to Japan suspended

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose Laurel V announced that the deployment of Filipino health workers to Japan has been temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and existing travel bans.

Ambassador Laurel explained that only individuals in diplomatic and government service are exempted from Japan's travel restrictions, with all other travels considered non-essential.

He noted that even members of the diplomatic corps face limitations in interacting with delegates for the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games, emphasizing the strict COVID-19 protocols in place.

Despite the challenges, the Philippines is prioritizing the vaccination and protection of its 11 delegates participating in the Olympic Games.

Several Japanese prefectures, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, are currently under a state of emergency due to a rise in COVID-19 cases.

However, the Filipino community in Japan remains largely safe, with 135 recoveries, two active cases, and one reported death.