Manila: The first group of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) repatriated from the Middle East due to rising regional tensions has returned to the Philippines. Thirty-one OFWs, including 26 from Israel, three from Jordan, one from Palestine, and one from Qatar, landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. They arrived on a Qatar Airways flight from Amman, Jordan, after a brief delay caused by the temporary closure of Qatar's airspace following an Iranian missile strike on a US airbase in Doha.
According to Philippines News Agency, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced that the second batch of 50 OFWs is expected to return later this week, with another 20 currently in the processing stage. Cacdac, alongside Assistant Secretary Venecio Legaspi, accompanied the OFWs from Jordan, ensuring their safe journey back to the Philippines. The repatriation initiative is part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to protect the safety and security of OFWs during crises.
The returning OFWs received financial support totaling PHP150,000 each, with contributions from the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). They also received immediate airport assistance, including temporary accommodations and transport to their home provinces. OWWA Chief Patricia Yvonne Caunan, together with other government officials, welcomed the OFWs and provided medical, psychological, and reintegration services.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa confirmed that the Department of Health (DOH) would offer medical services to a cancer patient and a pregnant OFW, including mental wellness check-ups. The DMW's National Reintegration Center for OFWs will support the repatriates in establishing livelihood ventures or finding alternative employment, while the Department of Trade and Industry will provide business training. For those seeking local employment, the Department of Labor and Employment will assist with job placement and matching.
The repatriates from Israel crossed into Jordan via the King Hussein Bridge before flying home, supported by Philippine embassies and welfare officers in the Middle East. Cacdac commended the coordinated efforts of government agencies in ensuring the safe return of the OFWs from conflict-affected areas.
DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay noted that 311 OFWs in Israel have requested repatriation to date. Cacdac encouraged more OFWs to avail themselves of the voluntary repatriation program, assuring them of comprehensive government support upon their return.
Caunan emphasized the emotional impact of the repatriation on the families of the OFWs, highlighting the joy and love experienced during their homecoming.
