In line with my post last week about a documented journey of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who went back for good in the Philippines from Malaysia, there were few inquiries of what happened after her journey at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City.

Readers were curious how was the process for the quarantine period. Maria (not her real name), shared her experience throughout this process and this is how it goes: 

What were your preparation(s) before your flight to the Philippines?

Before my flight to the Philippines, I registered to Red Cross three days before that flight. This is very important in order for me to submit my documents for my application for the OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS) under the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO).

Why do you need to register to OASIS?

By registering in OASIS, you (the OFW) are providing necessary information to DOLE, POEA, OWWA, and POLO that will enable them (these Government offices) to respond to your concerns and provide appropriate services in view of the CoVid-19 pandemic, such as testing, quarantine, and transportation.

For repatriation assistance, the organization also encourage everyone to accomplish the online registration form at least five (5) days before your scheduled flight.

What are the requirements for the OASIS online registration?

The registration is via this link: http://oasis.owwa.gov.ph/. You can also do your application via this link OASIS Downloadable Form. You are also required to register to Philippine Red Cross e-CIF System at https://e-cif.redcross.org.ph/ at least three (3) days before your scheduled flight.

What happened right after your flight from Malaysia?

Right after the flight, we took our baggage and went to the OWWA assistance desk at the airport. They checked our details and they assisted us to get on the bus to get to the hotel where we will be staying for the quarantine period.

How long is the quarantine period?

The officer said it will take 7 consecutive days.  On the fifth day, I undergo a swab test to check if I am clear for this CoVid-19. We are required to have this before we go back to our home town. The swab test results will be given to us within 24-42 hours according to the health officer.

We are not allowed to go out so our food is just being served at our door area. 

Did you pay for your quarantine accommodation and everything?

No. All were covered by the OWWA. I am very happy for this assistance given to us OWWA. To be honest, the quarantine period is very expensive, especially for our accommodation, food, transportation, and the swab test. It really helps us to save on these expenses.

What happened after your quarantine in Manila?

They said they will send me to my hometown and I don't need to pay for the transport service. I will go straight to my family. Our Barangay Chairman required me to undergo another 5-7 days of quarantine at our Local Government Unit (LGU) following the 14 days required quarantine period.  This will help to ensure that I am clear with that virus for the safety of my neighborhood.

What advice can you give to those OFW who will be returning soon to the Philippines?

Get in touch with your embassy. They will guide you. Register yourself to the OASIS and Red Cross. It will help you a lot. There are cases that during the registration process for the OASIS, your entry may be not be accepted but you can download the form and submit it manually. 

When going back to your family, we have to abide by the SOP for your safety and the safety of your family members. It is not a normal practice to have this kind of process, but by doing this, we are actually helping to save a life.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my warmest thank to our OWWA and their team for ensuring that we are safe throughout the process of this new normal. Their sacrifices to assist us are highly appreciated. I am very thankful for their kindness. Thank you OWWA.