The repatriation of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) is temporarily suspended due to the suspension of inbound flights imposed by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) in nine airports in the country.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) explained the move is part of the health measures to decongest quarantine facilities.
DOTr USec. for Administrative Affairs Artemio Tuazon said that as per the request of the NAP Chief Implementer, the airports will be closed for one week starting Sunday to put a necessary system and testing place.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the operation of ordinary domestic flights is still uncertain even if some ECQ areas will be placed under GCQ after May 15.
He added that only sweeper flights, medical flights, and emergency flights are allowed.
Meanwhile, public transportation under the GCQ remains limited where only a 50 percent capacity is permitted for buses.
Tuazon said they are proposing the use of automatic fair collection system for modernized jeepneys. But for old jeepneys, payment must first be given to the driver before boarding.
The DOTr also assured the projects under the “Build, Build, Build” program will continue while ensuring the safety of construction workers. – Report from Stephanie Sevillano
