A total of 57 overseas Filipino workers bound for Abu Dhabi have safely returned to Manila early Monday, March 2, 2026, after being stranded at the Hong Kong International Airport. This repatriation effort comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have disrupted travel and heightened safety concerns for Filipino nationals abroad.
Government Coordination Ensures Safe Return
According to Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the group included 23 overseas Filipino workers and two children who arrived at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City at 6:45 a.m. via Emirates Airlines Flight 336. The swift and organized response from Philippine authorities played a crucial role in facilitating their safe passage home.
Immediate Assistance Provided to Returnees
The returning workers quickly received assistance through the DMW Aksyon Fund, which provided immediate financial support to help them cover urgent expenses. Additionally, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) took charge of arranging temporary housing and transportation for the returnees.
To address their health and well-being, the Department of Health (DOH) offered medical assistance, while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided psychosocial support to help them cope with the mental and emotional challenges resulting from their ordeal.
Gratitude Expressed to Host Countries
Secretary Cacdac expressed gratitude to the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other host countries in the Middle East for ensuring the safety of Filipino citizens during this period of instability. "We thank the UAE government, the local government of Dubai for taking care of our fellow Filipinos. Also, to the government of host countries [in the Middle East] involved in this crisis for their safety protocols and defense system in place," Cacdac stated.
Ongoing Repatriation Efforts
Cacdac assured the public that Philippine authorities are continuing their efforts to repatriate other Filipinos affected by the ongoing conflict in the region. The government remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and implementing measures to protect overseas Filipino workers from potential risks associated with geopolitical tensions.
The successful return of these 57 individuals highlights the importance of international cooperation and robust government mechanisms in safeguarding the welfare of migrant workers during times of crisis.
