Twenty-two Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), including one dependent, have safely returned to the Philippines from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The group arrived on the evening of September 10 via Cebu Flight 5J741 at NAIA Terminal 3.
Prior to their return, the OFWs temporarily stayed at the Migrant Workers Resource Center (MWRC) while their repatriation was being arranged.
Immediate Assistance Upon Arrival
Upon arrival in the Philippines, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) promptly extended assistance for arrival processing and other immediate needs of the returning workers.
Assistance provided included:
- Special Financial Assistance for urgent expenses
- Food during the processing period
- Temporary accommodation for those awaiting onward travel
- Transportation assistance for travel back to their home provinces
The assistance was aimed at addressing the needs of the OFWs from the moment of their arrival until they could safely return to their families.
Coordination from Riyadh to Arrival
According to reports, concerned offices ensured that proper assistance was in place for the OFWs starting from Riyadh through to their arrival in the Philippines. Coordination covered the entire repatriation process to prevent disruptions for the workers.
Continuous communication between offices in Saudi Arabia and in the Philippines provided the foundation for the group’s smooth and orderly return.
Additional Services for Reintegration
Upon returning to their home areas, OFWs may approach OWWA Regional Welfare Offices for additional services, including support for reintegration and assistance in finding livelihood opportunities within the country.
This ensures that support does not end at arrival, but extends through the workers’ reintegration into their communities.
Part of the Government’s Ongoing Response
This repatriation effort is part of the government’s continuing response to the needs of OFWs, in line with the directive to provide prompt, comprehensive, and compassionate support to Filipino workers during times of need.
From repatriation to reintegration, OWWA remains committed to serving returning Filipinos every step of the way.