All returning Filipinos from abroad are required to undergo a an RT-PCR test upon arrival and a mandatory quarantine while waiting for a negative result. But the process differs on classification.
Upon arrival, the groups are segregated by the coast guards to OFW's and Non OFW. Each are ushered to different holding areas.
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| Photo by DOT NCR |
FOR OFW's
The OFW's will take turns on the Red Cross Verification counter to validate their information.
It is recommended that they are able to pre register online using this link: https://e-cif.redcross.org.ph/
You can verify your result through this link: https://e-cif.redcross.org.ph/
Nowadays, result from red cross are usually available within 3-5 Days of extraction.
After extraction, the OFW's will now be classified to either Land Based or Sea Based. The Land Based OFW's are assisted by Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) while the SEA BASED are taken to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Desk. OWWA is in charge of providing the Quarantine Hotels for returning Land Based OFW while the Manning Agency will provide the accommodation for Sea Based OFW's at no expense to the passenger. The privilege also includes transportation to destinations outside of Manila after the mandatory quarantine.
But please bear in mind that only active members may avail of this privileges. Inactive members are re classified as Non OFW.
For Non OFW
Returning non OFW's will have to undergo the RT-PCR test from private diagnostic laboratory stationed at the airport. Price of the test is 4,500 pesos but the result is made available within 1 to 2 days, sometimes earlier.
For passengers of Philippine Airlines arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2, you need to register through their own Electronic case Investigation Form using this link:
After the swab extraction, they will be ushered to the Department of Tourism (DOT) desk to validate their hotel quarantine facility. It is recommended that these hotels are booked in advance because the options at the airport are limited as compared to those online. Just make sure that the chosen hotels have been inspected either by the Department of Health or the Department of Tourism.
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| DOT Desk at Terminal 1 (Photo by DOT NCR) |
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| DOT Desk at Terminal 2 (Photo by DOT NCR) |
List of Accredited Hotels For Mandatory Quarantine by DOH: http://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/facilities-inspected-as-of-september-30-2020/
List of Accredited Hotels For Mandatory Quarantine by DOT: Click on the Accreditation Page on the link http://www.tourism.gov.ph/
Please note that only hotel within Metro Manila are allowed as mandatory quarantine for returning overseas filipinos. A booking confirmation must be presented at the desk. It's best that you keep a printed copy or a screenshot of your booking ready on your device. Messages and handwritten documents will not be honored.
Transportation
For OFW's
OWWA and Marina will provide shuttle transfers free of Charge.
For Non OFW
The are 3 options for returning non-ofw all to be paid by the passenger.
1. Hotel Transfer with identification
2. Coupon Taxi (Fixed Rate, SUV)
3. Yellow Metered Taxi
A handful of forms will be given, but the most important is the Affidavit of Undertaking. This will be given to the Philippine Coast Guards upon exit. Get ahead by downloading and filling out the form below:
This will serve as your gate pass.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I ask my relatives to pick me up?
Only accredited transport is allowed to enter the arrival area. Having your relative pick you up totally defeat the quarantine purpose. Only when a negative result is available and presented to the hotel representatives will you be allowed to reunite with your families.
I have my own condominium unit or apartment, and I'm the only one living there, why do I need to incur additional expense and book a hotel as a quarantine facility?
The Accredited and Inspected facilities adhere to strict health and quarantine protocols imposed by the government. They will limit your mobility and report to IATF any violations. Something the government cannot impose on private homes.
I just had a negative result before flying, why do I need to get one upon arrival?
The government is exerting all efforts to protect our borders from the virus. Although you can vouch for your own health, there's no guarantee that the rest of the passengers on the same flight did the same thing. You become a vulnerable candidate the moment you boarded the flight especially the long ones. It also serves a preparatory document to your next destination.
What if I don't have money to pay for the swab test and hotel?
In extreme cases where you can't afford to pay for private swabbing, you may opt to avail the one by Red Cross, but be prepared to wait a bit longer for the release of result. Government Quarantine facility is also available free of charge, but you might have to wait up to the last flight of the day to be taken to Eva Macapagal Quarantine Complex. The Coast Guard needs to gather all availers from different flights and terminals before the transfer.
Please comment if you have other questions below!
