After days of uncertainty due to airspace closures in Qatar, the first group of repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by tensions in the Middle East is finally on its way home.
A total of 31 Filipinos—26 from Israel, three from Jordan, and one each from Palestine and Qatar—are aboard Qatar Airways Flight QR 934, along with Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac. The flight is expected to land in Manila tonight, June 24, 2025.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed the successful coordination with Qatari authorities, who helped facilitate the resumption of flights after regional tensions temporarily halted operations. “We thank the Qatari Ministry of Interior for resolving the airspace issue and ensuring the safety of our kababayans,” the department said.
The Philippine Embassy in Doha and Ambassador Mardomel Celo D. Melicor were also commended for their swift response, along with the Migrant Workers Office in Qatar, for assisting affected Filipinos during the delays.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the developments and has ordered a comprehensive welcome for the returning OFWs. Upon arrival, each repatriate will receive Php 150,000 in financial aid and full airport assistance, including accommodations or transportation to their home provinces.
Government agencies such as DSWD and DOH are ready to offer psychosocial and medical support, while TESDA and DTI will provide training and livelihood aid to help the repatriates rebuild their lives.
The DMW said updates on additional repatriation efforts and assistance programs will continue to be shared through its official channels.
