By Marita Moaje
MANILA – Twenty-two Filipinos victimized by human traffickers were repatriated back to the country from Cambodia on Wednesday amid the Department of Migrant Workers’ (DMW) intensified efforts to assist distressed Filipinos abroad.
In a social media post, the DMW said a whole-of-government approach, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, made the repatriation possible.
“The successful repatriation was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the DMW Rapid Response Team in Cambodia, the Migrant Workers Office in Singapore, and the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh, reflecting the government’s continuing commitment to bring distressed Filipinos home safely and support their path toward recovery and reintegration,” the DMW post read.
The group, accompanied by DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay, arrived at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City early Wednesday morning aboard Philippine Airlines flight PR 2622 from Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh.
Upon arrival, the Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team immediately conducted health assessments and other medical assistance to the Filipino workers.
Meanwhile, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration also provided transportation and temporary accommodations.
They will also receive free legal assistance from the DMW Migrant Workers Protection Bureau and members of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.
Financial assistance and welfare services will also be made available to help the returnees recover from their experience and reintegrate into their communities. (PNA)
