New steps for Filipinos returning to Manila

TDT | Manama

Philippine nationals in Bahrain wishing to return home in the near future must follow a new set of guidelines both prior to departure and upon arrival at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the Philippine Embassy in the Kingdom has announced. These steps apply to all Filipinos, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), seafarers, and non-OFW returning citizens.

Prior to departure, each traveller must register and fill out an electronic Case Investigation Form (e-CIF), available online at e-cif.redcross.org.ph/. All procedures must be followed to secure a QR Code, which the returning travellers must save on a mobile device by taking a screenshot or have a copy printed out. After landing at NAIA, a mandatory briefing will be given to explain the remaining process.

The QR Code must then be presented for coronavirus (COVID-19) swab testing at NAIA, to be performed by trained personnel from the country’s Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ). Returning Filipinos can then go through immigration, after which they must head to the relevant desk for booking of their quarantine facility—either a government-designated quarantine centre or a BOQ-approved quarantine hotel.

Travellers must remain there until they receive the result of their COVID-19 tests via text message or e-mail within 72 hours. Travellers whose test results are negative will be allowed to move out and undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or at an appropriate local monitoring facility, while those whose test results are positive will be transferred to a designated hospital for further medical management.

The Philippine Embassy has also noted that OFWs are requested to register in the Department of Labour and Employment’s OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS) through the following links: dole.gov.ph/ofw-assistance-information-system-oasis/ or oasis.owwa.gov.ph. Accomplishing the e-CIF and registering in the OASIS system before arrival will facilitate immigration and quarantine clearance for entry into the Philippines.