30 REPATRIATED OFWS ABOARD

Returning Navy task force marks June 12 in Philippine waters

Sailors and marines composing the Naval Task Force (NTF) 82 under the Joint Task Force “Pagpauli” commemorated the 122nd Philippine Independence Day aboard BRP Davao Del Sur (LD602) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16) as they entered Manila Bay on Friday after months of journey in the Middle East.

The Ramon Alcaraz and Davao Del Sur sailed in formation with crewmen on deck creating the human formation of the number 122 for a photo taken from an AW109 naval helicopter.

The helicopter conducted flight operations from Alcaraz's flight deck while the ship was in motion.

NTF 82 commander, marine Col. Noel Beleran also read the Independence Day message for the troops on behalf of AFP chief of staff, Gen. Felimon Santos Jr.

Meanwhile, on board the ships were 30 Filipino repatriates from India and Sri Lanka who had completed the required quarantine period with no one exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.

The Navy also provided them with interventions, counseling, and physical activities to uplift their morale and well-being during this period.

NTF 82 would be accorded a formal arrival honor at Pier 15 in Manila next week. The crew will undergo swab testing while the need to have an extended quarantine period is yet to be determined by local health authorities.

Last May, the Alcaraz suffered an engine room fire and had to undergo repairs in India.

Two crewmen were injured in the fire, which was caused by an oil leak. — DVM, GMA News