Philippines, COVID-19 Home Publications Articles PHILIPPINES – Crew Claim Guidance – Impact of COVID-19 on 120 / 240 Day Rule PHILIPPINES – Crew Claim Guidance – Impact of COVID-19 on 120 / 240 Day Rule Publications Tony Nicholson Published: March 25, 2020 Contact author Download article pdf Image Updated May 2020 This article is based upon advice prepared and provided by the Club’s correspondent lawyers Del Rosario & Del Rosario. Background In response to the threat posed by COVID-19, the President of the Philippines initially placed Luzon, which includes the capital Manila, under “enhanced community quarantine” (ECQ) from 16 March to 13 April, which was recently subject to a further extension to 31 May. However, the recent extension beyond 15 May has seen a traffic light system introduced, resulting in the “community quarantine” (CG) status in low risk Provinces being removed (green light); those in moderate risk Provinces continue under “general community quarantine” (GCQ) (amber light); and a new “modified enhanced community quarantine” (MECQ) status introduced for high risk Provinces (red light). No doubt both the date and the nature of the quarantine status in each Province, will be kept under review. The significant restrictions imposed on one third of the Philippines, with a population of more than 55 million people, includes suspension of public transport and impacts on access to non-essential medical or surgical assistance. In addition to the direct impact this has on Manning Agents and Company Designated Physicians (CDPs), the Supreme Court closed all courts nationwide and Government offices like the National Labour Relations Commission (NLRC) and National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) have suspended hearings. Despite the restrictions on both domestic and international travel in force, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs – which includes seafarers) are still able to travel in and out of the country. However, we understand the POEA