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Philippine government issues protocol on crew change and repatriation of seafarers (as of 8 June 2020)
The Philippine government recently issued the protocol on crew change and repatriation of seafarers under the jurisdiction of the Philippines during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This issuance is pursuant to the call of the International Maritime Organization to designate seafarers as 'key workers' and allow their unhampered movement.
For those joining ships, Filipino crew must be RT-PCR tested at the point of hire. Private laboratories may be utilized for this purpose. While awaiting results, crew are to undergo facility-based quarantine. These requirements shall be for the account of the employer.
Joining of foreign crew on-board ships within waters under Philippine jurisdiction is currently not permitted.
For ship disembarkation, disembarking Filipino crew shall undergo RT-PCR testing. Thereafter, they shall proceed immediately to the designated quarantine facility where they await the test result. For crew on-board cruise ships, they shall undergo RT-PCR testing and will have to stay on-board the ship until their results come out and they are given clearance to disembark.
For disembarking foreign crew, only those without signs and symptoms and with confirmed outbound flights are allowed to disembark from the vessel. The foreign crew’s outbound flight must be within four (4) hours from the time of disembarkation. Disembarking foreign crews need not undergo a CoVID-19 test; they must wear mask and any other PPE while in transit from vessel to the aircraft.
Please be advised that these regulations are subject to change as the need arises.
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