Labor secy: Funding not enough for OFW repatriation

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III stated that funding alone is insufficient to guarantee the repatriation of distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), emphasizing the need to consider other significant factors.

During a House committee hearing, Bello highlighted that international lockdowns imposed by countries where OFWs are employed present major obstacles to their return, even if the Philippines is open to them.

He also pointed out that legal impediments, such as employers withholding exit visas, are a significant challenge in the repatriation process.

Furthermore, OFWs facing unsettled loans and ongoing legal cases in their host countries complicate their ability to return home.

While acknowledging that increased funding can support government repatriation efforts, Bello reiterated that it cannot solely ensure the success of these initiatives.

The Labor secretary stressed that the most effective solution lies in the coordinated efforts of all relevant government agencies and the private sector.

House Deputy Speaker LRay Villafuerte had previously advocated for increased funding to bolster government initiatives aimed at bringing home distressed OFWs.