A total of 131 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their nine dependents from Lebanon are set to return to the Philippines this week (February 10-11), according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
The development is part of the government’s ongoing repatriation efforts amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The repatriated OFWs had been staying in Beirut under the care of the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave clear directives to help our kababayans, our OFWs, affected by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East,” DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said.
“We stand continually ready to assist and support OFWs who wish to go home for safety and security,” Cacdac added.
Upon their arrival, the government will provide financial and airport assistance, ensuring a smooth transition back home.
Additionally, returning OFWs will receive reintegration support, including “livelihood assistance or skills training enhancement for redeployment options.”
The DMW reported that since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023, a total of 1,569 OFWs and 68 dependents have been repatriated from Lebanon.