The Philippine government announces the successful release and repatriation of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who had been facing a death sentence in Saudi Arabia. This significant achievement underscores the unwavering commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers worldwide.
“This achievement is a testament to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard the rights and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers, even in the most challenging circumstances,” emphasized Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
The OFW, who was convicted on September 24, 2024, for possession of illegal drugs, was granted freedom following sustained and diligent diplomatic and legal efforts. These efforts were spearheaded by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), in close coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
The repatriated OFW arrived in the Philippines on the evening of June 10, 2025. During his visit to the DMW Central Office, Secretary Cacdac personally assured him of all necessary assistance and support. The OFW is currently being temporarily housed at a hotel in Pasay City under OWWA’s care, awaiting his flight to Butuan City.
Secretary Cacdac had personally visited the OFW in Riyadh earlier this year, a gesture that reaffirmed the Philippine government’s steadfast commitment to providing care and ensuring assistance to OFWs facing distress and unfortunate situations.
“’Wala ng inisip ang ating Pangulo kundi ang kapakanan at kaligtasan ng ating mga OFWs. Iyan ang palaging paalala ng ating Pangulo sa amin sa DMW,’” Cacdac reiterated, highlighting the President’s continuous emphasis on the welfare and safety of OFWs.
The DMW, in partnership with the DFA and OWWA, provided the OFW with crucial legal representation and financial assistance throughout his ordeal, ensuring due process and facilitating his safe return home. The OFW was initially arrested on April 2, 2023, on drug-related charges and was subsequently detained at Riyadh General Jail along Al Kharj on September 10, 2023, before his sentencing.
