First Lady visits distressed OFWs in Saudi Arabia

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos visited Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a temporary accommodation for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) awaiting repatriation.

She met with over 150 distressed Filipino mothers, children, and women, listening to their stories and assuring them of their imminent return.

As directed by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) facilitated the safe repatriation of 43 distressed OFWs and eight minor dependents.

OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan described the visit as a landmark moment and a heartfelt act, likening the First Lady's presence to "a mother's embrace."

Upon arrival in Manila, each repatriate received financial and livelihood assistance, including P50,000 from DMW, P10,000 each from OWWA and DSWD, and P60,000 from the Office of the President.

The First Lady also gifted them travel luggage and other essentials, while OWWA helped arrange transport and accommodation for those returning to the Visayas and Mindanao.