Filipinos repatriated from Middle East amid conflict, Qatar airspace delay, says OWWA chief

Dubai: The first group of Filipino workers affected by the escalating conflict in the Middle East have returned to the Philippines, as reported by The Filipino Times, citing the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

A total of 31 individuals, comprising 26 from Israel, three from Jordan, one from Palestine, and one from Qatar, were on board Qatar Airways Flight QR 934. They are accompanied by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, according to a Filipino Times report. Cacdac also shared the movement on his social media profiles.

Last night, Secretary Cacdac stated in a Facebook post that their flight faced a delay due to the temporary closure of Qatar’s airspace, a direct consequence of ongoing regional tensions. “We were asked to deplane and stay safely inside the Doha Hamad International Airport terminal,” Secretary Cacdac confirmed. The Filipino Times reported that the Qatari Ministry of Interior played a crucial role in resolving the airspace issue, ensuring the passengers’ safety.

Earlier today, Secretary Cacdac also said, "Thank you for your assistance and support to our returning workers from Israel, Jordan, and Palestine, PHL Ambassador to Qatar Boy Melicor, most especially during our disembarkation upon closure of Qatari air space."

Upon their arrival in the Philippines, each repatriated individual received financial aid of P150,000, airport assistance, temporary shelter, and transportation to their home provinces.

Various Philippine government agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Health, are prepared to offer counselling and medical assistance.

Additionally, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry will provide support through retraining and livelihood programs.