PRC to test 20,000 OFWs for COVID-19

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) plans to conduct COVID-19 tests on approximately 20,000 returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

The PRC expects to test 2,000 OFWs monthly to ensure their safety before reuniting with families.

Recently, 120 seafarers who returned to the country were tested at the PRC's new molecular laboratory in Mandaluyong City.

The PRC aims to establish 20 additional testing facilities nationwide to increase testing capacity.

Testing of returning OFWs will also commence at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals I and II, and Eva Macapagal Terminal.

Discussions were held with BCDA President Vince Dizon and the PCG Task Force Laban Coronavirus regarding testing protocols at airports.

Nurses and medical technologists from the armed forces will perform the swabbing under PRC supervision.

BCDA President Vince Dizon highlighted the importance of Red Cross's testing capacity to quickly identify and isolate infected OFWs, allowing negative cases to undergo home quarantine.