MANILA – In a significant development for overseas workers, the first group of 64 Filipinos has returned home from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of a two-month visa amnesty program initiated by the Gulf nation. Their arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Friday marks a hopeful beginning for many expatriates seeking to reintegrate into Philippine society.
The repatriates arrived on Philippine Airlines flight PR659, greeted by personnel from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and representatives from various government agencies, including the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Falconi Millar, chief of OWWA’s Repatriations and Assistance Division, led the welcoming committee, emphasizing the program’s importance for returning workers.
“Dahil nga sa amnesty program na ito, ang ating mga Pilipinong repatriates ay nakauwi sa Pilipinas nang walang multa o parusa,” the OWWA announced on social media, highlighting that the amnesty allowed these individuals to return without incurring fines or penalties.
Among the repatriates, 35 hailed from Abu Dhabi and 29 from Dubai. Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Alfonso Ver, coordinated the repatriation efforts through the One-Country-Team UAE, which includes the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General in Dubai, and Migrant Workers Offices in both cities.
The UAE’s amnesty program, which commenced on September 1, offers a lifeline to overstaying Filipinos and other expatriates by waiving fines and legal repercussions for those who choose to leave the country. This initiative is particularly crucial for individuals holding various visa types, including tourist and expired residency visas. Notably, it also extends to children born without proper documentation, allowing them to rectify their status.
In its first week, the program has already seen over 2,000 Filipinos take advantage of this opportunity. Many of these overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) had previously fled from employers and struggled to find stable employment.
The DMW, in conjunction with OWWA, has covered the airfare for the returning workers. Upon their arrival, repatriates received additional support, including financial assistance, food, and transportation to help them reach their home provinces.
As the amnesty program continues, hopes remain high for thousands more Filipinos seeking to return home safely and start anew.
