DOLE aims July 4 repatriation of 274 Saudi OFWs' remains

DOLE aims to repatriate the remains of 274 Filipino workers who died in Saudi Arabia, including those from COVID-19 and other causes, by July 4.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III stated that they are working on meeting all necessary requirements such as health protocols, exit visas, employer approvals, and consent from next of kin.

Out of the total, 129 workers died due to COVID-19 while 145 died of natural causes; previously, 23 COVID-19 victims were buried by the Saudi government and four others with natural causes were repatriated.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines assured that more flights will be allowed for OFW repatriation, helping to address delays caused by flight restrictions during the pandemic.