MANILA, Philippines – Fifty overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) fleeing the conflict in Lebanon arrived safely in the Philippines on Friday, the first of hundreds expected to return home in the coming weeks.
The group, which included no reported injuries or casualties, was welcomed at the airport by officials from the Department of Migrant Workers, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and other government agencies.
“We continue our sheltering, repatriation, and monitoring of the situation on the ground,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.
Another 45 OFWs with 5 dependents are scheduled to arrive on Saturday, part of the 334 Filipinos expected to be repatriated from Lebanon this November as the conflict there intensifies.
The repatriated workers will receive 150,000 Philippine pesos ($2,700) in financial assistance from the OWWA. They will also undergo medical and psychological checkups, and be offered free livelihood training and job placement aid.
“Our kababayans (countrymen) have endured a harrowing experience, but we are glad to have them back home safely,” Cacdac said. “The government stands ready to provide all necessary support during this difficult time.”
Lebanon has been rocked by Israeli airstrikes in recent weeks, prompting many foreign nationals to flee the country. But so far, no deaths or injuries have been reported among the Filipino workers there.
With the conflict showing no signs of abating, officials expect more OFWs to return to the Philippines in the days and weeks ahead. The government has vowed to prioritize their welfare and reintegration.
