The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
A total of 299 Filipinos, including children, returned home from the Middle East on Thursday, receiving government assistance upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac led a whole-of-government team in welcoming the repatriates and assured them of full support.
“Sa ngalan ng ating Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, welcome home po. We are thankful that you are all safe. Also, we are much thankful sa Emirates, sa UAE government sa pag aalaga sa inyo, sa pag prepare ng… (In the name of our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, welcome home. We are thankful that you are all safe. Also, we are very thankful to Emirates, to the UAE government for taking care of you, for preparing) the flight to Manila as we provide support,” Cacdac said.
Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez said the passenger manifest included a mix of repatriated OFWs and other affected travelers returning home amid regional tension.
Of the 299 returnees, 23 were overseas Filipino workers accompanied by two children. The Department of Migrant Workers extended immediate financial aid through its AKSYON Fund, while the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided accommodation and transportation services. The Department of Health administered medical assistance, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development offered psychosocial support to help cope with stress from the conflict.
The repatriated group included OFWs who returned as advised by their employers, those who completed their contracts, and others who returned home for personal reasons.
Malacañang earlier assured the public that contingency measures remain in place to assist Filipinos abroad, including OFWs, should regional tensions escalate further.