Singapore-bound OFWs must undergo quarantine, Covid-19 test

The estimated cost of the 14-day SHN is at SGD2,000 while the Covid-19 test will amount to SGD200. Both amounts include the goods and services tax (GST). (Pexels Photo)

MANILA – Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have stayed in the country for the last 14 days and are going to Singapore are required to undergo mandatory 14-day quarantine and testing for coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

In an advisory released on Saturday, the Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Singapore (POLO-SG) reminded Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)-accredited employment agencies, employers/principals of their additional responsibilities and OFWs, who are work pass holders entering the host country.

The additional responsibilities are included in the recent advisory issued by the Ministry of Manpower.

“Filipino work pass holders who spent the last 14 days in the Philippines and entering Singapore must: Serve a 14-day Stay-Home-Notice (SHN) at a dedicated facility.

Work pass holders will be informed of the location and sent directly to the facility upon arrival in Singapore,” the POLO said.

It added that work pass holders must take a Covid-19 test before the end of the SHN period.

“Work pass holders will be informed through SMS on the schedule of their test,” it added.

All expenses will be shouldered by the employers.

The estimated cost of the 14-day SHN is at SGD2,000 while the Covid-19 test will amount to SGD200. Both amounts include the goods and services tax (GST).

“The costs must not be deducted from the salary of the work pass holders,” the POLO said.

The employers are also advised to visit the link https://www.mom.gov.sg/covid-19/additional-responsibilities, for more information.