Twenty-one out of 38 Filipino crew members of expedition cruise ship MV Hondius are currently under quarantine in Amsterdam following concerns over possible hantavirus exposure onboard, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said.
Another 17 Filipino crew members remain aboard the vessel, which is en route to Rotterdam and is expected to arrive on May 18, where they will also undergo quarantine procedures.
Cacdac said the seafarers are being closely monitored by Philippine embassy officials, labor attachés, and Dutch health authorities amid ongoing health protocols.
“So 21 now, in the Netherlands are under quarantine,” Cacdac said in a press briefing in Pasay City.
He said Philippine Ambassador Ed Malaya, labor officials, and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration personnel are coordinating assistance and monitoring the condition of the affected crew members.
Cacdac added that health experts from the World Health Organization are also involved, with doctors reportedly onboard the vessel to ensure safety protocols are followed and that the remaining crew are not at risk.
Concerns over possible hantavirus exposure aboard the MV Hondius were first raised earlier this month, prompting precautionary quarantine and monitoring measures for the Filipino seafarers.
Authorities have yet to provide a timeline for the crew’s return to the Philippines, saying repatriation will depend on clearance from health officials.
