2GO shifts gears to reunite OFWs with their families

2GO Group Inc shifts to higher gear its passengers’ service operations to support government’s directive to speed up the homecoming of over 24,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) stranded in Metro Manila due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The group, which operates the Philippines’ largest integrated supply chain, said it is “ready, willing, and capable”’ of safely transporting the locally stranded OFWs and other individuals to the Visayas and Mindanao regions. In fact, 2GO has been supporting the Balik Probinsiya program of the government since it started.

Last May 24, two of its vessels – the M/V St. Therese of Child Jesus and the M/V St.  Leo the Great – left Manila with 1,000 repatriated Filipinos on board who were finally on their way home after being held up in the capital while undergoing the mandatory 14-day quarantine since April.  2GO’s fleet of passenger ships has made numerous hassle-free trips between Manila to its 12 service ports in Visayas and Mindanao ranging from Bacolod down to Zamboanga.

To ensure safety and wellness of its passengers and crew, 2GO management has set in place strict health and sanitation protocols that are being enforced to the letter. New sea travel guidelines are also being implemented such as social distancing in the sleeping and dining areas, regular temperature checks and less contact with crew throughout the trip.

2GO can accommodate and bring home over 6000 individuals for this week’s sailings to Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Cagayan De Oro, Dumaguete, Ozamis, Iligan, Zamboanga and Nasipit.  All OFWs who wish to get on board must show proof that they have undergone the required quarantine and were given a clean bill of health by concerned authorities. Other required documents are ID cards showing proof of residence, passport with arrival stamp, and Bureau of Quarantine certificate.

The OFWs can either coordinate with their respective manning agencies, or book directly with 2GO regarding their trip through email address bayanihan@2go.com.ph, or call 09065726255 and 09516143362.

Passengers are encouraged to show up for boarding at least four hours before departure.

“We are proud to be a partner in all endeavors of the government to lift the people’s quality of life through efficient and affordable public service, notably in the transport sector. We are committed to delivering seamless movements of people and commerce at globally competitive levels” said 2GO shipping head Dan Fernan.