Manila: The Philippine government is intensifying its repatriation operations in the Middle East, with more flights set to bring home around 2,500 'repatriation-ready' overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the coming days, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said on Monday. This, as Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac welcomed the arrival of 342 OFWs and their dependents on board another chartered flight arranged by the government.
According to Philippines News Agency, this marks the 9th chartered flight, bringing the total number of repatriated OFWs and their dependents to 5,400. Cacdac mentioned that additional arrivals are expected in the coming days, including 150 from Bahrain and over 300 from Kuwait. The operations were previously slowed down due to airspace restrictions.
Cacdac also noted that the remains of 16 OFWs, who died of natural causes, will be transported on the same flight. The transport had been delayed due to logistical constraints during the temporary airspace closure. Despite these challenges, the DMW is committed to bringing home both distressed workers and deceased Filipinos.
The government plans to scale up repatriation efforts through commercial flights once the situation in the Middle East stabilizes. Cacdac expressed that if the ceasefire holds, the situation will improve, allowing the use of commercial flights. Financial assistance is also being extended to affected workers, including on-site aid and support upon their return to the Philippines.
OFWs like Jun Celestial and Alice Pinero, who arrived on the 9th chartered flight, shared their experiences of job loss and fear due to the conflict. Pinero, despite the UAE's defense system, felt uncertain and requested repatriation. Now back in the Philippines, Pinero plans to seek employment locally and stay with her family.
Celestial highlighted the decline in employment opportunities across the Gulf States, which compelled him and others to return home. He expressed gratitude to the government for facilitating their return and providing support during these challenging times.
