PH ready to repatriate OFWs dismissed due to COVID-19

The Philippines is prepared to repatriate Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Hong Kong who have been dismissed from their jobs due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. expressed his "deep disgust" over the reported firings of Filipino domestic helpers, stating that the Philippines had previously allowed them to work in Hong Kong.

Locsin mentioned that he had secured a promise from the Chinese Ambassador to Manila that returning OFWs to Hong Kong and Macau would receive the same protection against COVID-19 as local residents.

This assurance was sought before Malacañang lifted the travel ban to Hong Kong and Macau on February 18, allowing OFWs to return after signing a declaration acknowledging the risks.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) secretary was saddened by a report from the South China Morning Post detailing the dismissal of several foreign domestic workers, including Filipinos.

He stated that the Philippines had been accommodating to Hong Kong and expected reciprocal treatment for their people.

Currently, at least two Filipinos in Hong Kong have tested positive for COVID-19.