MANILA — Another 74 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Saudi Arabia safely returned to the Philippines on the evening of November 10, 2026, with assistance from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
The returning workers arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, where they were welcomed and assisted by DMW and OWWA personnel, along with the medical team of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA).
Under the UPLIFT initiative and in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to support OFWs and their families, the returning workers received financial assistance, free meals, temporary accommodation, and transportation to ensure their safe and orderly return home.
Among those repatriated was Ferlita Penera, who sought assistance from the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Riyadh and the Philippine Embassy to facilitate her return to the Philippines.
“I was properly assisted when I approached DMW-OWWA for repatriation. I am very happy because I was able to return home without spending anything, from food to airfare,” Penera said.
According to the DMW, the latest arrivals brought the total number of Filipinos assisted by the government in returning home to 1,014 since the closure of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Meanwhile, OFWs requiring repatriation assistance were advised to contact the nearest Migrant Workers Office or Philippine Embassy. They may also reach the 24/7 DMW-OWWA Hotline at 1348.
Source: Department of Migrant Workers / Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
