Senator Christopher Go has reiterated the urgency of providing repatriation and other support services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning from Israel and Lebanon amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers emphasized that the safety and welfare of OFWs must be prioritized during such global crises when they are forced to leave their jobs and go back home.
“It’s about empowering our OFWs to restart their lives here with dignity and hope,” Go said.
The senator met on Thursday at NAIA terminal 3 the more than 40 OFWs from conflict areas who returned safely to the Philippines.
The senator particularly stressed the need for a more comprehensive and sustainable reintegration program to cater to the varying needs of repatriated OFWs.
“The DMW—Department of Migrant Workers should be there. I called on the government to give all interventions to our countrymen,” he appealed.
He also acknowledged the need for mental health support and reintegration opportunities for returning OFWs from such areas, underscoring the government’s duty to ensure their well-being.
Even before OFWs return home, Go called on the government to ensure that reintegration programs are made readily available for them to overcome the trauma they experienced and be able to recover.
Aside from possible employment opportunities, he said the government must be ready to assist in their physical and psychological well-being, temporary housing if needed, and the welfare of their families as well.