THE first batch of repatriates from the Middle East arrived in the country Tuesday night amid escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
The group, comprising 26 OFWs from Israel, three from Jordan, one from Palestine, and one from Qatar, arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at 7:30 p.m. via Qatar Airways flight QR934 from Amman, Jordan.
The flight was delayed due to the temporary closure of Qatar’s airspace following Iran’s missile strike in Doha.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Assistant Secretary Venecio Legaspi accompanied the OFWs during their journey home.
Cacdac said their safe return fulfills President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure OFW safety during crises.
Each returning OFW received PHP150,000 in aid from DMW and OWWA, along with temporary shelter, transportation, and health services. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the DOH provided medical care to a cancer patient and a pregnant OFW.
Support for reintegration—including livelihood aid, skills training, and job placement—was also provided by agencies like TESDA, DTI, DOLE, and DFA.
DMW reported 311 repatriation requests from OFWs in Israel, with more scheduled to return in the coming days.
