On August 21, a total of 63 Filipinos, including 46 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Kuwait and 17 seafarers from the M/V Minoan Dignity, returned to Manila via separate flights, as reported by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The OFWs arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on Kuwait Airways Flight KU417, while the seafarers landed at Terminal 3 on Emirates Flight EK334.
The repatriation of the seafarers followed a tragic incident on August 18, when the M/V Minoan Dignity was struck by an unidentified projectile while navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Among the 18 Filipino crew members on board, one chief engineer lost his life, while the remaining 17 were rescued and taken to Khasab, Oman, for processing prior to their return to the Philippines.
Upon their arrival, OWWA, in collaboration with the Department of Migrant Workers and the MIAA Medical Team, provided necessary assistance at the airport. This included support for the 46 OFWs from Kuwait, such as financial aid, food, temporary accommodation, and transportation to their home provinces.
OWWA emphasized its commitment to continue supporting these workers through its Regional Welfare Offices, offering services that encompass welfare referrals, financial assistance, livelihood programs, counseling, and various reintegration resources tailored to the needs of the returning workers.
