With the decision of the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19, NAIA and all other international airports in the Philippines will temporarily restrict commercial operations until May 9, 2020. Flights that will be permitted are (1) Emergencies while enroute; (2) Cargo Flights; (3) Air Ambulance and medical supplies flights; (4) Weather Mitigation Flights; and (5) Maintenance Flights.
There will also be sweeper flights for foreign nationals repatriating back to their respective countries. All domestic air travel remain suspended until further announcements.
With this factor, Filipino seafarers hoping to get onboard is highly unlikely. And those who are onboard will stay for yet uncertain number of days.
A new data from the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Maritime Employer’s Council (IMEC) says that there are around 150, 000 seafarers that needs repatriation by the middle of May.
Among those affected according to the report are Filipinos which accounts to 40, 000, 20, 000 Indians, 15, 000 Ukrainians and 10, 000 Chinese seafarers.
Different countries impose lockdown measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Thus greatly affecting travel and other transportation options. For the past two months, crew change has stopped which meant seafarers stay longer onboard in turn increasing the risk of safety and their mental well being.