COVID-19 REPATRIATION GUIDE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:

Q-1. What is the purpose of the Philippine Embassy’s online registration?

A: The objective of the online registration is to identify Filipino nationals who would like to be repatriated.

Q-2. When will we be repatriated to the Philippines?

A: Your repatriation would depend on a couple of important factors.

Q-3. What are these factors?

A: a.) OPENING OF TRANSIT HUBS. As of now, Indonesia, Singapore, and Australia have prohibited the entry and transit of all foreign nationals. Thus, we cannot pass. RESUMPTION OF FLIGHTS IN TIMOR-LESTE. All flights in the country are currently suspended from 28 March to 26 April 2020.

Q-4. Is there any other way to be repatriated without transiting the restricted hubs?

A: The Embassy is coordinating with the DFA regarding possible alternate modes.

Q-5. Upon repatriation, where will we land in the Philippines?

A: It depends. The default locations are Manila and Clark International Airports.

Q-6. Upon arrival in the Philippines, how can we go back to our home provinces?

A: The DFA will coordinate with DOLE-OWWA and DOTr regarding your final places of destination. You will have to inform us ahead of time where you would wish to go home to.

Q-7. Can we be transported to our home provinces outside of Luzon?

A: There are currently no domestic flights in the Philippines. And, some provinces outside Luzon are also on enhanced community quarantine and might not admit returnees during the said period.

Q-8. Will we be quarantined upon arrival in the Philippines?

A: The DOH medical team that will be at the airport will assess your medical condition and prescribe either quarantine in their facility or home quarantine, depending on your health condition.

Q-9. Will repatriates receive financial assistance?

A: You are advised to coordinate with DOLE-OWWA personnel at the airport for assistance.

Q-10. Can those who are undocumented be repatriated?

A: Only after the settlement of applicable penalties.

Q-11. Can we be repatriated if we have outstanding local debts?

A: You are advised to settle it first or discuss with your creditor. The Embassy is not authorized to provide financial assistance for personal and private transactions.

Q-12. Will we be allowed to return to Timor-Leste?

A: Without any valid restrictions on your return (e.g. travel ban, blacklisting, etc.), you are free to return.

Q-13. What will we do if we experience COVID-19 symptoms here in Timor-Leste?

A: You are instructed to consult a doctor and to strictly follow the imposed home quarantine. If symptoms worsen, you should immediately inform the Ministry of Health and the Philippine Embassy.

Q-14. What is the Embassy’s advice as regards the ongoing State of Emergency?

A: It would be for the best interest of all to remain calm, to maintain good health, and to abide by the lawful orders of the Timorese Government, including the Ministry of Health and the National Police.

Q-15. How can we get updates on the situation in Timor-Leste and our possible repatriation?

A: Stay tuned to the official news channels and sources, as well as the Philippine Embassy’s official Facebook page. You may also directly contact us through our usual number and online platforms.

We hope this helps. Maraming Salamat Po!