444 Filipinos from virus-stricken cruise ship arrive in Clark

MANILA, Philippines – A total of 444 Filipinos aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship marooned in California, United States due to confirmed cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) arrived early Monday morning at Clark Airbase in Pampanga.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the chartered flight from San Francisco International Airport landed at Clark Airbase, Pampanga, at 2:15 a.m.

DFA said all repatriates – 438 crew members and six passengers – were immediately transported to the Athlete’s Village in New Clark City for the mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Meanwhile, DFA said 78 Filipino crew members volunteered to remain on board the ship for maintenance purposes.

Thirteen Filipino crew members who tested positive for COVID-19 stayed in the US and were brought to a care facility for treatment, DFA added.

“If only I can, within my limited power as Mayor, I will definitely not forsake my own people, my beloved Capaseños, unfortunately over and above all these considerations is my being part of the bigger picture of public governance.I cannot segregate Capas from the rest of the country which needs selflessness and the unrelenting support to the national and global effort to combat COVID-19,” Capas Mayor Reynaldo Catacutan said.

Catacutan said they would offer a welcome dinner for the third batch of repatriates.  Individual towels will also be provided. He also pledged for the meals of all the personnel securing the quarantine site.

 Tarlac Gov. Susan Yap also welcomed the third batch of repatriates.

 “The same as with previous returning repatriates, Tarlac has made all preparations and is doing all we can. Our concern is the returning residents from Manila who are under the radar. At least with NCC all are monitored, unlike what is happening in Manila where tracking of local transmission is very difficult. ”  Yap said.

GSG