The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), in coordination with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), successfully repatriated 18 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) stranded in Dubai due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The repatriated OFWs—originally bound for Tel Aviv, Israel and Amman, Jordan—were left stranded following the temporary shutdown of major airports in the region. Their safe return was facilitated through Philippine Airlines Flight PR 659, which departed Dubai on the evening of June 15 and arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City on June 16.
“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued clear directives to ensure the safety and well-being of our kababayans affected by the unrest in the Middle East,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac. “We are fully committed to assisting and supporting our OFWs who seek to return home under these challenging circumstances.”
Secretary Cacdac and OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan personally welcomed the returning workers and assured them of continued government assistance. The repatriates received immediate financial aid through the DMW’s AKSYON Fund, along with food, airport assistance, and other essential support services.
The DMW’s Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai had earlier provided food and logistical assistance to the affected workers while they awaited their flight.
In line with long-term support, the DMW’s National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) will assist the repatriates with upskilling, livelihood support, and reintegration programs, including skills training for future redeployment opportunities.
Secretary Cacdac emphasized that the DMW is working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Philippine embassies across the region to continuously monitor the situation and ensure the safety of all OFWs in conflict-affected areas.
To aid affected workers and their families, the DMW and OWWA have also activated a 24/7 Middle East Help Desk, providing real-time support and updates amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
