Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 25) – Twenty-one more Filipinos from the Diamond Princess cruise ship were added to the total of those who have tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing to 80 the number of infected Filipinos.
The Department of Foreign Affairs made the announcement on Tuesday, the day set for the repatriation of Filipinos who will again undergo quarantine in Tarlac.
Just last Monday, the Philippine government said 59 Filipinos have tested positive for COVID-19 out of 538 Filipino passengers and crew members on board the ship.
Two special flights are expected to arrive in a two-hour interval this evening carrying Filipinos who will be subjected to the 14-day quarantine period at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.
Over 400 Filipinos aboard the cruise ship initially expressed interest in coming back to the country, but they will still be subject to further testing, Health Assistant Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reminded. She said only those who have tested negative will be taken to the quarantine facility.
Per Tokyo PE, 80 Filipinos from the Diamond Princess cruise 🛳 have so far tested positive for Covid-19. 10 have since been discharged w/ clean bill of health. Remaining Filipino crew for repatriation today have all tested negative. 🙏🏻 @teddyboylocsin #DFAinACTION
— Dodo Dulay (@dododulay) February 25, 2020
Another set of testing procedures will also be done before landing. Those who will manifest signs of respiratory illness will be isolated in one area of the aircraft and will be taken to a government-identified hospital for further treatment upon disembarkation.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay said of this latest count from the Philippine embassy in Tokyo, ten have been discharged.
Meanwhile, the remaining Filipino crew for repatriation today have all tested negative, Dulay added.
Vergeire said around 20 key Filipino crew members will have to remain in the ship to help maintain operations.
