Philippine Embassy 'deeply concerned' over deaths of 20 Pinoy health workers in UK

Philippine officials in London have sought the British government's assistance in ensuring the protection of thousands of Filipino health workers amid rising coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the country as 20 of them have already died in the line of duty.

In a statement, the Philippine Embassy in London said it has brought to the attention of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) the concerns of Filipino nurses in the United Kingdom for the need for more personal protective equipment (PPE), especially for those who are assigned in COVID-19 wards.

“We are deeply concerned about the deaths of Filipino health workers who sacrificed their lives as the world continues to fight this vicious disease. They put their lives on the line so that others may heal, live, and be reunited with their loved ones,” Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo said.

As of Monday, around 20 Filipino healthcare workers succumbed to the deadly respiratory virus based on the deaths reported to the Philippine Embassy in London. 

According to the embassy, the deaths of the Filipino healthcare workers due to COVID-19 "have caused a stir among British society since it is well known that Filipinos represent the third biggest group of National Health Service (NHS) staff after the British and Indians."

Close to 19,000 Filipinos serve the UK's public health system either as medical professionals, such as nurses and allied health professionals or as support staff.

British broadcaster Piers Morgan recently thanked Filipinos working in the NHS, calling them "extraordinary workforce" and unsung heroes. Filipino nurses said they were touched by Morgan's gesture.

The embassy said various independent fundraisers organized by the friends and family of those who succumbed to the disease have donated face masks and hot meals to NHS health workers.

Several other Filipino community organizations have also provided aid to medical frontliners.

Consular offices at the chancery is closed due to the lockdown in the UK, but the embassy said its Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) coordinates with Filipino community organizations in extending assistance and monitoring the condition of those severely affected by the virus.

Philippine diplomats in London also assured the embassy will continue to render services to distressed Filipino citizens in light of the global pandemic. 

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday said 990 Filipinos abroad have been confirmed to have contracted COVID-19. —KG, GMA News