Filipino Workers Return Safely Amid Middle East Tensions, Government Provides Full Support
A group of 23 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), along with two children, safely returned to Manila early Thursday, March 5, 2026, as tensions continue to escalate in the Gulf Region. The returnees arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City via Emirates Airlines Flight 336 from Dubai, forming part of a larger group of 299 Filipinos who made the journey home.
Government Welcomes Repatriates with Open Arms
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac personally welcomed the OFWs upon their arrival, stating, "Welcome home. We are thankful that you are all safe." The DMW explained that the reasons for repatriation varied among the workers. Some returned for safety and security reasons as advised by their employers, others had completed their contracts, and some chose to come home for personal reasons or to settle permanently in the Philippines.
Comprehensive Assistance Package for Returnees
The Philippine government has implemented a robust support system for repatriated OFWs. All returnees received immediate financial assistance from the DMW, accommodation and transport services from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa), medical assistance from the Department of Health, and psychosocial support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The DMW emphasized that all necessary assistance and support from the government were assured for every OFW returnee.
Escalating Repatriation Requests in the Gulf Region
According to Owwa, the number of OFWs seeking repatriation has surged dramatically as hostilities intensify in the Gulf area. The agency reported that nearly 1.8 million OFWs are now requesting repatriation, with Owwa's social media post specifying 1,739 formal requests received from OFWs in the Middle East and other countries affected by regional tensions.
Government Readiness and Structured Networks
DMW Secretary Cacdac reiterated the government's preparedness to bring home OFWs as soon as directives are received. "The Philippine government is organized all across the Gulf States and Israel. We have Embassies, we have the DMW and Owwa to cover the labor offices, and we are in contact with the Filipino communities. These are structured networks that we have. We can carry out repatriation in place," he stated confidently.
Fake News Alert Regarding Financial Assistance
Owwa issued a crucial warning against false information circulating on social media. The agency strongly denied claims that the government is providing P150,000 in financial assistance to all OFWs seeking repatriation. Owwa clarified that there is no truth to such rumors and urged the public to be critical of unverified sources. The agency emphasized, "We remind everyone to be critical. Do not immediately believe posts or videos that do not have a clear source. There is no P150,000 aid being distributed."
Genuine Benefits for Owwa Members
Despite debunking the fake news, Owwa confirmed its commitment to providing multiple forms of legitimate assistance to repatriated OFWs. These include financial aid for those in distress, livelihood and reintegration programs for workers starting over in the Philippines, and training assistance, scholarships, and upskilling opportunities to enhance job prospects. "Being a member of Owwa has real benefits for OFWs and their families," the agency affirmed, highlighting the tangible support available through official channels.
