Manila: Government-chartered flights carrying repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East region are scheduled to arrive over the weekend, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced. In a Bagong Pilipinas interview, DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia confirmed that at least 300 OFWs are coming home in two batches.
According to Philippines News Agency, Olalia detailed that two chartered flights are being organized, with one originating from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the other from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This effort is being coordinated with the Philippine Embassies and host governments. These flights were arranged by the DMW in collaboration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Olalia highlighted that due to restricted airspace in several Middle Eastern countries like Kuwait and Qatar, some evacuations require land travel to cross borders. He explained that 50 repatriates, for example, will be crossing from Kuwait into Saudi Arabia to board the chartered flight. He emphasized the importance of coordination with both the country of origin and the destination country to secure necessary entry and exit permits.
The Philippine government is actively working to secure travel documents and permits for the returning workers. Crisis management teams have arranged temporary accommodations, food, and documentation for OFWs awaiting their flights from staging areas such as Fujairah in the UAE.
Data indicates that over 400 Filipinos have already returned to the Philippines since tensions escalated in the region on February 28. Olalia assured that returning OFWs will receive government assistance upon arrival, including psychosocial services, skills training, and livelihood support through programs coordinated with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry.
Olalia also urged Filipinos in the Middle East to prioritize their safety and adhere to advisories from host governments, including 'shelter in place' instructions when necessary.
