The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) welcomed a group of 22 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who safely arrived from Israel on Saturday.
The returning group, consisting of 18 caregivers and four hotel workers, landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport via a commercial flight. Their journey was coordinated through a strategic transit route from Israel to Egypt, where OWWA officials facilitated their boarding and travel logistics.
Upon arrival, the repatriates were met by a high-level delegation from the DMW, OWWA, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The agencies provided immediate on-site assistance, including:
-
Logistical Support: Safe transportation and temporary accommodation for those residing in provinces.
-
Psychosocial Services: Initial briefings and counseling sessions provided by DSWD representatives.
-
Financial Aid: Immediate welfare assistance to cover urgent needs.
The Philippine government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that these workers do not just return home, but thrive. A multi-agency support package is currently being deployed to assist in their transition:
| Program Area | Implementing Agency | Support Details |
| Skills Development | TESDA | Specialized training and certification for local or alternative international markets. |
| Employment | DMW (G2G) | Priority access to Government-to-Government overseas employment tracks. |
| Livelihood | OWWA/DTI | Financial grants and entrepreneurial training for those starting small businesses. |
| Health | DOH/OWWA | Comprehensive medical evaluations and continued healthcare support. |
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of our modern-day heroes. Beyond ensuring their safe flight home, we are here to provide the tools and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives with dignity through our whole-of-government reintegration approach,” said DMW Sec. Hans Leo Cacdac.
The DMW and OWWA continue to monitor the situation of Filipinos in the region, ensuring that assistance remains available for those who wish to return to the Philippines.
