This week, Qatar Airways terminated around 200 of its Filipino employees. Those who were let go from their jobs were from the technical department, such as engineers, maintenance staff and other similar positions. Redundancy was the reported reason indicated in the termination letter.

Redundancy is Reason for Termination
This is according to Philippine Labor Attache to Qatar David Des Dicang, from a report in ABS-CBN News. Dicang said that the airline company instructed the employees to process their clearance, and has assured them that they will receive their end of service benefits.
Dicang further said that the terminated employees requested assistance from the Philippine Labor Office (POLO). POLO and the Philippine embassy were also coordinating with the Qatar Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs in assisting the terminated workers, especially those who have bank loans.
Also from ABS-CBN News, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. said that the Philippine government is getting ready to repatriate the workers that were laid off by Qatar Airways. In Twitter, Sec. Locsin tasked the Philippine embassy in Qatar to report the situation regarding the repatriation. He also said that he doesn’t need to get clearance from other officials to be able to bring our countrymen home.
Here is the tweet from Secretary Locsin:
I don’t need clearance from anybody. I’m taking them home. @DFAPHL prepare for the repatriation. I expect a report from our people in Qatar NOW. https://t.co/uMfUh8jpl6
— Teddy Locsin Jr. (@teddyboylocsin) March 17, 2020
The Department of Foreign Affairs is also verifying reports that Filipino workers in Qatar Airways were prevented from going to work and is reportedly let out in the open, according to a report from Manila Bulletin. Locsin tasked the embassy in Qatar for reports regarding this incident.
Airline operations have been drastically affected following the Covid-19 outbreak. Most airplanes have been grounded due to reduced number of flights in and out of the country. According to Qatar Airways website, the State of Qatar currently restricts entry of nationals from other countries, only allowing entry to Qatari nationals. Those with connecting flights through Hamad International Airport and cargos are also allowed entry. The restriction takes effect for 14 days, and may be extended after reviewing the current situation.
In separate news from Paxex.aero, Qatar Airways has announced its plan to reduce 75% capacity cut in response to Covid-19. This could be due to the declining number of passengers since countries have set up restrictions of entry with one another.
For updates in situation in Qatar, see our other posts: Qatar Public Transport Extends Suspension, Qatar Closes Mall, Shopping Centers, Barber Shops, Spas and Mosques, Qatar Prohibits Dining in Restaurants and Cafes, Update: 460 Total COVID-19 Cases in Qatar.