The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that at least 500 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are set to return home from Lebanon as part of ongoing government efforts to repatriate Filipinos from the conflict-affected country.
According to DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac, 254 OFWs have already secured flights, with the next batch expected to arrive in the Philippines within the next three to four days.
The workers, who have obtained exit clearances from the Lebanese government, will return on different flights. Meanwhile, 178 OFWs are currently housed in a government-run shelter in Lebanon, awaiting their turn to leave.
Since the repatriation initiative began last year, 460 OFWs and 28 dependents have been brought home. The government has assured that sufficient funds are available to continue the repatriation amid the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Alert Level 3 remains in effect in Lebanon.
Returning OFWs will each receive financial assistance of P150,000, along with medical, training, and other essential support.