'Ayuda' readied for OFWs unable to return to jobs in the Middle East

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured assistance for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are unable to return to their jobs in the Middle East amid ongoing tensions in the region.

However, according to Chino Gaston’s report on 24 Oras on Monday, the DMW has yet to determine the exact number of affected OFWs.

“Gumagawa pa tayo ng talaan kung sino yung mga hindi makapanumbalik,” said DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac.

(We are still compiling a list of those who are unable to return to their jobs.)

“Galing din ako sa Middle East at mayroon talagang mga sektor na apektado: hospitality sector, transport, restaurant, pati construction nga. So sila muna ang inaabisuhan natin, huwag muna magpatuloy kung wala naman dadatnan na mga trabaho sa abroad,” he added.

(I also came from the Middle East, and there are indeed affected sectors: hospitality, transport, restaurants, and even construction. We are advising them for now not to proceed if there are no jobs waiting for them abroad.)

For now, the government is rolling out measures to assist OFWs who are unable to leave or return to their jobs. Among these is the Bayanihan Para sa Balikbayang Manggagawa program, which aims to provide financial aid and support for livelihood or business opportunities.

“Sinabi naman natin na since Day 1 tinutulungan natin yung mga hindi maka-alis… Kaya tayo ay nagbibigay ng tulong para sa mga OFWs. Itong ating pondong pinansyal, tutulungan natin sila kung hindi muna sila makaalis,” Cacdac said.

(We have said since Day 1 that we are helping those who are unable to leave… That is why we are providing assistance to OFWs. Through our financial support, we will help them if they cannot leave for the time being.)—Vince Angelo Ferreras/MCG, GMA News