In an interview with CNN Philippines’ The Final Word, Philippine Consul General in Hong Kong Raly Tejada said they have so far recorded 41 COVID-19 cases, 28 of which are in isolation centers. The others were admitted by the Hong Kong government under its quarantine system.
As of Feb. 19, five have already recovered, three of whom have returned to their employers.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 21) — The Philippine government is extending help to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who tested positive for COVID-19 in Hong Kong.
Acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles on Monday said the Philippine Overseas Labor Office gave cash, food packs, and hygiene kits to the workers who caught the virus. In addition, POLO is working to provide spaces for isolation pending quarantine arrangements since hospitals are full due to the ongoing Omicron-driven surge.
Tejada confirmed reports that some OFWs with COVID-19 had been fired from their jobs. He said this occurred during the beginning of the surge, where three to five OFWs were terminated after contracting the virus.
POLO also provided $200 financial assistance each to OFWs who recently recovered from COVID-19.
“Unfortunately, this included other Filipinos who had nowhere to go because either they missed their flights after they tested positive, or those that were staying in dormitories were kicked out by their dorm mates,” he noted.
Tejada said the infected OFWs went to the hospital to seek medical help, but ended up waiting for a long time because Hong Kong facilities “were actually full to the brim and close to breaking point.”
The official said the unlawful act stopped after a stern warning was issued to employers. He said his office is now coordinating with Hong Kong authorities to properly address the matter and take legal action if necessary.
“For those that were fired by employers because they tested positive for COVID, we will make sure that a proper investigation by our labor office in Hong Kong is conducted with the view to filing appropriate charges against erring employers,” Tejada said.
