As of 28 April 2020, a total of 584 seafarers will be able to go back home in their respective provinces, after they have completed the 14-day mandatory quarantine.

The Malasakit Help Desk (MHD) for Filipino Seafarers, through the Balik-Probinsya Program, has already assisted two batches of repatriated and distressed seafarers. The first batch was composed of 305 seafarers, and the second was composed of 279 seafarers.

The Balik-Probinsya Program is a joint initiative of Department of Transportation (DOTr), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Health (DOH), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), concerned LGUs and the seafarers’ local manning agencies.

We assure the public that the Balik-Probinsya Program will accommodate more batches in the days to come.

United we stand. Together, we heal as one. Bayanihan upang COVID-19 ay mapagtagumpayan!

 

Source: Department of Transportation – Philippines