The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) thanked the Government of Singapore for helping repatriate overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Saudi Arabia, calling it a benevolent act that reflects ASEAN solidarity.
At least 24 Filipinos were flown home after Singapore deployed a military aircraft as the Middle East conflict disrupted flights across the region.
Singaporean Ambassador to Manila Constance See said on Friday, March 13, that Singapore sent its RSAF A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft to bring home its nationals.
Two dozen Filipinos, along with nationals from Brunei, Indonesia, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, were also able to join the flight due to available seats.
“This is really ASEAN solidarity in action—neighbors helping neighbors in difficult moments. Our ASEAN neighbors have assisted Singaporeans in returning home in past crises,” See said.
The DFA, through the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, coordinated with the Singaporean government to facilitate the departure.
Meanwhile, the Migrant Workers Office and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Jeddah arranged the booking of OFWs’ flights to Manila and provided financial assistance.
“The Philippine Consulate General expressed its appreciation to the Singapore Consulate General for its assistance in the repatriation,” the DFA added. (Joseph Pedrajas)
