By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
MANILA – The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has helped bring 24 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) out of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, when it mounted a repatriation flight for Singaporean nationals following airspace disruptions in the region due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday that the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah coordinated the repatriation with the Singaporean side as the 24 were unable to secure outbound flights due to limited flight availability.
The OFWs, accompanied by Consul General to Jeddah Rommel Romato, departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on March 12.
They arrived in Singapore at 6 a.m. on March 13, where they were assisted by the Philippine Embassy in Singapore with their onward travel to the Philippines.
The Migrant Workers Office and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Jeddah facilitated the booking of their flights to Manila and also extended financial assistance.
The DFA, meanwhile, conveyed its appreciation to the Singaporean government, describing the inclusion of Filipinos in the flight a “benevolent act, which exemplifies the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) spirit of solidarity.”
“The DFA, through its Foreign Service Posts and in line with the One Country Team Approach, remains committed to protecting the welfare of Filipinos overseas and ensuring their safe return home,” it said.
In a text message, Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See said this extension of seats to Filipino nationals is done in the spirit of solidarity, and “complements” Manila’s own complex repatriation efforts to bring Filipinos home safely.
“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,” she said.
“Singapore and the Philippines are close friends, and we were very glad to help these Filipinos begin their journey home. At the end of the day, what matters most is that people return safely to their families.” (PNA)
