European tourist stranded in NAIA for over 100 days finally goes home

A European tourist who was stranded at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for over 100 days has finally traveled back home.

In a Facebook post on July 3, Roman Trofimov said he arrived in Manila via AirAsia on March 20, three days after the enhanced community quarantine was implemented in Luzon.

He said he was denied entry and his passport was taken from him. He was also told that he would not be allowed to fly back until the ECQ is lifted.

"I am person with disability my health is getting worse because malnutrition, lack of sun and fresh air," he said. "I have no other choice, but to go public please share with news agencies."

According to a report on Metro, Trofimov had a connecting flight to Cebu and a return flight to Bangkok on April 2 but both were cancelled due to the pandemic.

He contacted the Estonian Consulate but he said they were unable to help him at the time.

In a video included in his Facebook post, Trofimov was shown heading to the passenger lodging facility in Terminal 1 with another stranded passenger.

He said he stayed in Terminal 3 at first, where he slept on the floor and the metal benches for one week.

"Only after I talk to my Consulate of Estonia, the airline started to provide food for me and then transferred us here on April 1st I think," he said.

In a statement sent to GMA News Online, AirAsia said Trofimov arrived in the country when airlines suspended flights in line with travel restrictions imposed by the government.

"AirAsia covered costs for his accommodation and meals three times a day since his arrival," the airline said.

Trofimov finally flew back home on Tuesday. AirAsia said his exit flight was arranged in coordination with the Estonian Consulate General in Manila.

"With help of god and [thanks] to all people who supported me in this difficult time I am going home now!" he said. "Thanks for sharing my story with world, good advice you give me and kind word of support." 

—MGP, GMA News