500 OFWs returning from Lebanon – DMW

MANILA, Philippines — At least 500 overseas Filipino workers are expected to return home from Lebanon amid the government’s efforts to repatriate more OFWs from the conflict-stricken country, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported yesterday.

Of the number, 254 OFWs have booked their flights home, according to DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac.

“The next batch of repatriates will arrive in the Philippines in the next three or four days,” Cacdac said.

He said the OFWs have secured their exit clearances from the Lebanese government and will arrive in the Philippines on different flights.

According to Cacdac, 178 OFWs are staying in the Philippine government-run shelter in Lebanon.

Since the start of the government’s repatriation last year, Cacdac said 460 OFWs and 28 dependents have returned home from Lebanon.

He said the government has sufficient funds for the repatriation of OFWs amid the escalating Israel-Hezbollah conflict.

Cacdac noted that alert Level 3 remains hoisted in Lebanon.

Returning OFWs from Lebanon will receive P150,000 in financial aid aside from medical, training and other necessary assistance.