Amid Omicron variant threat, Filipinos in South Africa urged to stay calm

Filipinos stranded in South Africa have been advised to remain calm and contact the Philippine Embassy, their agencies and employers after the Philippines imposed a temporary ban on travelers from the said country due to the Omicron COVID-19 variant threat.

In a statement on Monday, the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria assured the public that it is closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation in South Africa.

“For this time being, concerned Filipinos are advised to closely coordinate with their agencies or employers and travel agents regarding the rescheduling of their flights and seeking assistance from their sponsors on the extension of their visas in South Africa,” the embassy said.

Stranded Filipinos who have not yet informed the Embassy on their situation are requested to urgently contact its mobile number at +27825569935 or email atn.pretoriape@gmail.com.

The embassy said that it was ready to provide assistance and support to the stranded Filipinos in the region.

“The embassy requests the latter to remain calm and continue observing COVID-19 protocols amidst these challenging and uncertain times,” it said.

It added that it would also continue to issue follow-up advisories and information on the matter.

Last month, scientists in South Africa said they had detected B.1.1.529 or the Omicron COVID-19 variant with multiple mutations, blaming it for a surge in infection numbers.

Meanwhile, the Philippines has enforced temporary travel restrictions on South Africa, Botswana, and five other southern African countries with local cases or with the likelihood of occurrences of the Omicron variant. -NB, GMA News