Thirty-eight Filipino crew members of the MV Hondius cruise ship, which was affected by a hantavirus outbreak, have returned to the Philippines, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced.
The seafarers arrived safely at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on the evening of June 19, 2026, after completing a 42-day quarantine in the Netherlands.
According to the DMW, all 38 Filipino crew members had tested negative for the virus before undergoing quarantine and were cleared to return home.
The returning seafarers were welcomed by DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, along with officials and representatives from the Department of Health (DOH), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) medical team, and the crew’s licensed recruitment agency.
Cacdac assured the crew of the government’s continued support and conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for the DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and DOH to coordinate efforts to ensure the seafarers’ safe return and well-being.
Upon arrival, the crew members underwent secondary medical screening conducted by the Bureau of Quarantine. They also received airport assistance and financial support from the DMW and OWWA.
“We wanted you to reunite with your families. We are very happy that you have arrived safely. If ever you need support, just reach out to us,” Cacdac told the returning crew members.
The DMW chief also expressed gratitude to the shipowner and the recruitment agency for taking care of the Filipino seafarers and supporting them throughout the quarantine period.
Meanwhile, Cacdac said the crew members are set to receive their remaining salaries and travel allowances from the shipowner through their agency. They will also be provided with free transportation and accommodation for their return to their respective home provinces.
Cacdac also said the DOH assured the returning seafarers of access to free medical consultations and zero-balance billing in government hospitals.
The DMW, meanwhile, offered reintegration assistance through the National Reintegration Network for those who wish to remain in the country and pursue livelihood or business opportunities.
