MANILA, Philippines | October 23, 2026 — Another 49 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Dammam have safely returned to the Philippines, bringing the total number of repatriated Filipinos from Saudi Arabia to 248, as the government intensifies efforts to bring home workers affected by flight disruptions and security concerns.
The latest group arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport aboard Gulf Air flight GF 154 at around 11:30 a.m. Friday, following travel disruptions that prompted workers from Riyadh to travel to Dammam for their return flights.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) continue to coordinate repatriation efforts, provide arrival assistance, and ensure the safety and welfare of affected workers.
Another 326 OFWs are scheduled to return between October 24 and 31, while arrangements are underway for an additional 72 workers targeted for repatriation on November 2.
Meanwhile, authorities continue monitoring seven Filipino workers injured in earlier incidents in Riyadh. The government is also coordinating with Saudi authorities regarding a separately reported Filipino fatality at the Shaybah oil field, pending official confirmation of the victim’s identity and other details.
Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize the safety and welfare of Filipino workers abroad, the DMW and OWWA remain committed to assisting OFWs and facilitating their safe return home.
The government’s message is clear: the safety of every Filipino worker matters, and no effort will be spared to bring affected OFWs home safely.
