WITH the world grappling with Covid-19 pandemic, the whole of Philippine government continues its efforts in responding to Filipinos both here in the country and those overseas.

A few days after repatriating Filipino seafarers from Italy, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) took part in the repatriation and welcomed 881 Filipino crewmen from the USA early morning today.

"The DFA works with other government agencies and the private sector in this whole of government approach to facilitate the seamless repatriation of our workers," stated Undersecretary for Migrant Workers' Affairs Sarah Lou Arriola.

The DFA and its post in Washington DC closely coordinated with the Department of Health, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Transportation, Department of Interior and Local Government and the local manning agencies for the seamless repatriation.

The group of repatriates is composed of 445 seafarers from Norwegian Cruises Dawn and Encore and another 436 from MV Magica and MV Favolosa.

The repatriated seafarers shall undergo a mandatory 14-day facility-based quarantine monitored by the Bureau of Quarantine. (PR)