MANILA, Philippines — Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac confirmed Sunday that the 38 Filipino crew members aboard the MV Hondius will undergo a mandatory six-week, or 40-day, quarantine and monitoring period in the Netherlands.
This measure is being implemented in strict accordance with international health and safety protocols. The announcement was made during a virtual press briefing on May 10, following reports of a Hantavirus outbreak on the Dutch-flagged vessel that previously claimed the lives of three passengers.
The MV Hondius is a Polar Class 6 research and expedition vessel launched in 2019. Known as one of the most advanced ships in the tourism industry for ice navigation, it was designed for scientific and extreme nature excursions with a capacity for 196 passengers and 70 crew members. The vessel's current voyage began on April 1, 2026, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina—the southernmost city in the world. The original itinerary was a specialized polar expedition across the South Atlantic, featuring stops at remote locations including the South Shetland Islands, South Georgia, Tristan da Cunha, and Saint Helena.
Authorities confirmed that while all 38 Filipino seafarers have tested negative for the virus, rigorous monitoring will continue to ensure their long-term health and safety. Cacdac provided a breakdown of the affected personnel, noting that the group consists of 24 members from the hotel crew and 14 members from the deck and engine departments. Despite the isolation period, he assured the public that the seafarers will remain under high-level medical and safety protocols throughout the duration of their stay in the Netherlands.
To support the crew during this period, several key measures have been established. The seafarers will receive full compensation, continuing to earn their salaries and benefits according to their existing employment contracts. Additionally, the Philippine government is extending financial aid through the Action Fund and other available support programs. The DMW, Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)—in coordination with the principal and the local manning agency stated they remain fully committed to the welfare and protection of the crew. The vessel, which was diverted from its route and recently docked in Tenerife, Spain, to facilitate passenger evacuation, is currently navigating strict international health mandates to prevent any further spread of the Andes strain of the virus.
