Another newly-arrived FDW sent back to PH after COVID-19 recovery

Filipina domestic workers at the Hong Kong Airport on their way home to Manila on July 2020. (FILE PHOTO/DFA/dfa.gov.ph)

Another worker has been removed from Hong Kong after testing positive for COVID-19, in a seeming policy shift by the Immigration Department on newly-arrrived domestic workers.

Consul-General Raly Tejada confirmed another worker was removed from the city after her employer backed out from the employment contract. The workers were reported to have tested positive upon arrival to the city, and were treated at a local hospital.

“Upon discharge we were informed that they were taken directly to the airport to be sent back to the PHL,” Tejada told in a message.

She is the second case of domestic workers being removed from the city following recovery from the infection. The first was Ermelyn Deño, who was sent back to the Philippines on Sept. 19 straight after she was discharged from the hospital. Deño arrived at Hong Kong on Sept. 12 and tested positive at the airport.

Tejada added their agents in Hong Kong were instructed by the Immigration Department to get air tickets for the helpers.

Tejada said the Consulate is seeking clarify from authorities if this was a change in policy. Hong Kong News also sought the Immigration Department’s comment on the matter.

This is a developing story.