The Philippine government recently initiated a repatriation program to assist overseas Filipinos in returning to their home country. The program aims to help repatriates transition smoothly back into their communities, providing them with a fresh start upon their return.
In the latest development of the program, 47 overseas Filipinos agreed to come back, constituting the ninth batch of beneficiaries under the amnesty scheme facilitated by the One Country Team UAE. Through this initiative, the beneficiaries had their overstaying and absconding fines waived, bringing the total number of repatriated Filipinos to 581.
Consul General Marford M. Angeles took charge of overseeing the check-in and immigration procedures at the airport, accompanied by a team from the Consulate, as well as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The amnesty program, which began on September 1, 2024, is set to conclude on October 31, 2024.
The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General in Dubai, and the Migrant Workers Offices in both cities have been urging Filipinos to take advantage of the program and the government's repatriation efforts, particularly those who have not found employment in the UAE. Ambassador H.E. Alfonso A. Ver emphasized the importance of eligible Filipinos obtaining their exit passes, also known as "outpasses," before the deadline.
To further support the returning Filipinos, the government is offering financial assistance as part of its reintegration efforts. The repatriates were provided with essential consular documents and airfare support to ensure a safe journey back to the Philippines. Additionally, measures have been implemented to ensure a dignified and seamless departure for all repatriates.
In related news, Alfonso A. Ver highlighted that the UAE government has issued new directives to companies in the country to refrain from recruiting overstaying foreign nationals.
