With reference to the Embassy’s Advisory No. JSD-2020-14 dated 29 March 2020 on the contact tracing of passengers from the Philippines, the Embassy continues to be in touch with Philippine Airlines (PAL). In its Special Advisory, PAL had clarified that one of the passengers on PR218 from Manila to Auckland has since tested positive for COVID-19.

The Embassy appreciates the efforts of our kababayans who have duly called the HEALTHLINE number last night and this morning to comply with the advisory. We are only concerned about your welfare and the possibility that the virus being passed on despite the lapse of the 14-day quarantine period for those who have self-isolated upon arrival.

The Embassy has tried reaching out to the Ministry of Health through the proper channels to ascertain the nationalities and/or identities of the passengers on those flights from the Philippines, but given the strict data privacy laws of New Zealand, has not received any response.

Be that as it may, the Embassy hopes that Filipinos would continue to observe proper hygiene and to comply with the directive of the New Zealand Government to “stick to your bubble” to flatten the COVID-19 curve.

The Embassy further hopes for your continued understanding and compassion to others during this most difficult time.