To all our Valued Business Partners:

Further to the previous parts of our ongoing series of advisories, and in preparation for the impending lifting of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Metro Manila, please be advised that the Joint Manning Group (JMG) has requested for a partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to provide testing services for seafarers at reduced prices. Both returning and joining seafarers are required to be tested in accordance with the Department of Health's Omnibus Guidelines on Quarantine and Test Procedures for Overseas Filipinos (please refer to attachment DOH 2020- 0200). This proposal, once agreed by the PRC, will ensure flat rate, better availability of tests, and ensure safe joining and transit of our seafarers with less risk of bringing the infection either to their families at home or to their colleagues onboard the ships. I have attached as well a copy of the letter from JMG.

Although transiting and flying are separate risks we also need to consider.

The cost of a single test is being negotiated at around PhP 3,500 according to the proposal and will be billed accordingly on top of the existing manning fees and other operational expenses to our partners. While this is not a fixed arrangement, we will update you should we receive further information on this regard, or find a more cost-effective measure.

We recognize that the changes brought about by Covid19 have been serious, and to some extent, have cost livelihood. Until a vaccine is widely deployed, it seriously threatens long-established norms on a global scale. Even worse that some have to endure bereavement from the loss of loved ones. We can only hope though that this challenge will even foster better cooperation leading to a joint approach as we walk through one of the greatest challenges of our industry, and of our lifetime.