MANILA - A new group of repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Israel and Lebanon arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport-Terminal 3 on Friday. This latest batch includes 32 individuals and an infant from Israel and four individuals from Lebanon. Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) office-in-charge Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced that this marks the continuation of the repatriation effort following the Israel-Hamas conflict that began in early October.

According to Philippines News Agency, this brings the total number of repatriated OFWs to 264, along with nine children from Israel, and 28 from Lebanon. The DMW has detailed that among the 32 from Israel, eight were hotel workers, with the rest being caregivers. There are ongoing efforts to repatriate more OFWs in the coming weeks from both countries, with around 150 in process from Lebanon and 83 pending from Israel. Additionally, efforts in the West Bank have resulted in the return of two OFWs, with four more still in process. Repatriated OFWs receive comprehensive assistance including financial aid, medical screening, livelihood assistance, skills training, and employment facilitation. A scheduled 'Kumustahan' session next week aims to further assess and assist these individuals in their reintegration and employment or entrepreneurial endeavors.