Riyadh: The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) hailed First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos' visit to the government-run shelter for distressed overseas Filipino workers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, last week.
According to Philippines News Agency, OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan described the visit as a landmark moment in the country's efforts to strengthen support for OFWs, particularly those in crisis. Caunan emphasized that the visit was more than ceremonial, describing it as a heartfelt act that resonated deeply with Filipinos abroad. She expressed that the First Lady's visit served as a comforting reminder to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that they are not alone, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to make government service a tangible reality.
During her visit, Araneta-Marcos met with over 150 women and children residing in Bahay Kalinga 1 and 2 and listened to their stories. She announced the long-awaited news of their return home and distributed essential supplies, including travel luggage, demonstrating the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and dignified return for the distressed OFWs. Her words reportedly moved many to tears.
The First Lady's visit extended to the Bagong Bayani ng Mundo Serbisyo Caravan, where she engaged with thousands of OFWs availing services from various government agencies, such as the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), OWWA, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), among others. The Serbisyo Caravan in Riyadh marked the first-of-its-kind coordinated outreach in Saudi Arabia.
The visit concluded with the Serbisyong May Saya, Hatid ng OWWA, a celebratory gathering that showcased the strength, talent, and unity of OFWs through music, performances, and shared stories of resilience. On Sunday, the successful repatriation of 43 distressed OFWs and eight minor dependents from the shelter was realized.
Upon their arrival in the Philippines, each returning OFW received a comprehensive assistance package, including PHP50,000 from the DMW, PHP10,000 from OWWA along with Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay aid, PHP10,000 from DSWD, and PHP60,000 from the Office of the President. OWWA also extended transportation and temporary accommodation support for OFWs returning to Visayas and Mindanao.
Ana Dimalen, one of the repatriates, expressed her gratitude to the government upon arriving in Manila. She remarked on the joy and gratitude felt by the OFWs at the shelter upon seeing the First Lady in person, acknowledging the collective efforts of President Marcos and others in facilitating their return home.
