DUBAI: The Philippine Consulate General’s (PCG) office here was temporarily closed for two days from yesterday, Sunday, Jan. 17 to “undergo extensive sanitation procedures after possible exposure to Covid-19.”
This, even as a travel advisory has been issued on Friday, Jan. 15 by the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi advising Filipinos travelling to the Philippines to be “prepared for entry protocols and the required 14-day quarantine period upon arrival” in light of the inclusion of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the list of some 34 countries subject to travel restrictions due to the new Covid-19 variant. The restrictions took effect also on Jan. 17.
The UAE, late last month, confirmed detection of the variant, which has a faster reproduction rate, in the country.
Earlier last week on Jan.13, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) said a Filipino who flew in from Dubai on Jan. 7 has tested positive for the new Covid-19 variant.
Meantime, PCG also urged all clients who availed of consular services to get tested “as soon as practicable.”
“All clients who availed of consular services today (Jan. 17, 2021) are strongly encouraged and advised to get tested for Covid-19 as soon as practicable,” stated the PCG advisory.
It also stated that PCG premises “will thoroughly be disinfected (during these) two days to ensure the health and safety of our clients.”
It was not immediately made clear whether any of the PCG staff has tested positive or exhibited symptoms that prompted the shutdown.
In its advisory meantime, the embassy said the entry of Filipino balikbayans or former Filipinos as well as non-Filipino spouse and non-Filipino children of Filipino citizens, will be restricted along with other non-Filipino travelers from the UAE.
It likewise stated that Filipino minors must be accompanied by their Filipino parents when traveling to the Philippines. “Unaccompanied Filipino minors may only be allowed boarding if they are being repatriated by the Philippine government,” the advisory said.
The embassy said the advisory will remain in place till further announcements are made on Jan. 31, 2021.
The Daily Bread 