Seafarer slams Filipinos blaming sailors for COVID-19

A Filipino seafarer named Arbie Rose Dianne Cutad has voiced her frustration over fellow Filipinos who are blaming sailors for the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

Cutad specifically called out those who claim seafarers are the ones bringing the virus to the Philippines and that they should not be allowed to return home.

Her statement was made in response to some residents who opposed the idea of using a hotel as a quarantine facility for repatriated Filipino seafarers.

Cutad, who has been working as a chef on cruise liners for nearly seven years, highlighted the hard work and sacrifices of seafarers for their families and their significant contribution to the Philippine economy through remittances.

She also emphasized the strict hygiene protocols and cleanliness maintained on cruise ships, countering the narrative that seafarers are unsanitary.

Cutad expressed that it is painful to face such discrimination, especially while the government and manning agencies are actively working to facilitate their return to the Philippines.