25 OFWs repatriated from Israel

A total of 25 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), mostly caregivers, were repatriated from Israel on Sunday evening, July 6, joining others who returned earlier amid Mideast tensions.

Upon arrival at NAIA Terminal 3, they underwent medical screening by the Department of Health and Manila International Airport Authority medics, with some referred for health concerns.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) provided immediate financial assistance, with each OFW receiving aid from the Aksyon Fund and Emergency Response Fund, plus separate cash aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan and DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac personally welcomed the repatriates, with Cacdac conveying the President's concern and happiness for their safe return.

The returning OFWs also received TESDA training certificates and vouchers, transferable to family members, to support skills development or business ventures.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac encouraged the OFWs to use the assistance wisely, with one returnee planning to start a small business.

This group forms the 39th batch of OFWs repatriated from Israel since the conflict escalated in the Middle East in 2023, with a separate batch of 21 workers arriving on Saturday.