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Posts published in “OFW”

The news for all OFWs

Travel Advisory: Updated Safety Rules for Power Banks on Philippine Airlines

April 19, 2026

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has updated its policy regarding power banks.

In a nutshell; (1) Passengers are limited to two power banks with a maximum capacity of 100Wh each. (2) You must have the power banks with you at all times, or under the seat—never in checked luggage or overhead bins. (3) While you may charge your devices, charging the power bank itself is strictly prohibited during the flight. (4) Ensure your device has a clear capacity label before heading to the gate.

Power Banks are not the only restricted items when flying via PAL, you can go here, for more information.

DFA announces Delay in Passport Release

April 9, 2026

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced passport release delays for applications filed starting the last week of March 2026. Due to logistical and supply chain disruptions caused by the Middle East crisis, the processing time for new ePassports has been extended to 10 to 15 working days.

The DFA is currently collaborating with its third-party printing provider to resolve these issues and restore normal operations. Applicants are advised to account for this updated timeline until further notice while the department works to stabilize the supply chain.

Philippine Airlines Resumes Manila-Riyadh-Manila Flights Effective April 10, 2026  

April 9, 2026

This is great news, especially to those who prefer a non-stop flight back to the Philippines!

PAL;

Philippine Airlines (PAL) advises the public of the resumption of flights between Manila and Riyadh effective April 10, 2026, following recent developments in the Middle East region.

The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our foremost priority. As Riyadh operations resume, PAL will temporarily operate via an alternate flight route to ensure the highest safety standards are maintained during this period.

As a result, select Manila-Riyadh flights will include a brief technical stop in Bangkok for refueling. No deplaning is required; passengers will remain on board while the aircraft refuels before continuing to Riyadh.

Ongoing monitoring
We continue to closely monitor the situation and will restore normal routing and full capacity as conditions allow. Updates will be communicated to affected passengers accordingly.

IMPORTANT: Passengers are advised to ensure they have a confirmed booking before proceeding to the airport. To verify booking status and view updated flight schedules, please visit:

https://www.philippineairlines.com/ph/en/manage-booking.html

For assistance, passengers may also connect 24/7 with PAL via the following PAL Channels:
• Manila Landline: (+632) 8539-0000 / (+632) 8855-8888

• Philippines Mobile: (+63) 919-056-2255

• US and Canada Toll Free Number: 1-800-435-9725

• Messenger: https://www.m.me/PhilippineAirlines

• WhatsApp: https://wa.me/639178305810

• PAL Help Page: https://pal.my.site.com/s/

We remain committed to connecting our customers to their destinations safely, reliably, and responsibly.

Thank you.

US Visa Applicants in the Philippines are required to set All Social Media Accounts to ‘Public’  

April 1, 2026

U.S. Embassy in the Philippines;

Effective March 30, in addition to Students and Exchanges (F, M, and J), and Specialty Occupations (H-1B and their H-4 dependents), the following visa applicants, regardless of age, must also now change their privacy settings and profiles to “public” on all social media platforms to complete the visa process.

  • Fiancé(e) Visa Applicants (K-1, K-2, and K-3 visas).
  • Certain Personal Employees or Domestic Workers (A-3, C-3, and G-5 visas)
  • Trainee or Special Education Exchange Visitors (H-3 and their H-4 dependents)
  • Cultural and Religious Visitors (Q, R-1, and R-2 visas)
  • Informant, Witness, and Victims of Crimes (S, T, and U visas)

The U.S. Embassy uses this information to determine applicants’ eligibility to receive a visa. Since 2019, the United States has required visa applicants to provide social media usernames on immigrant and nonimmigrant visa application forms.

Visa applicants are required to list all social media usernames, handles, or identifiers for every platform they have used in the last 5 years on the visa application form. Applicants certify that the information in their visa application is true and correct before they sign and submit. Omitting social media information could lead to visa denial and ineligibility for future visas.

Here’s the announcement from the official X/Twitter account of U.S. Embassy in the Philippines @USEmbassyPH.

Riyadh Parking announces Operating Hours and, Free Parking on Holidays and National Occasions  

March 31, 2026

@The RIYADHizen by TPT;

Take note, RIYADHizens! RIYADH PARKING has announced new operating hours that took in effect last week. It is uodated to the following:
📆 Saturday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 MN
📆 Friday – FREE
📆 Holidays and National Occasions – FREE
The parking fee is SAR 3.45 per hour and you’ll know you’re parking on a paid slot when you see half of the parking block or wheel stop painted in blue. There will also be the Paid Parking sign. You can pay via the Riyadh Parking app.
When patking in these slots, just pay. Wag na po manghinayang sa SAR 3.45. Because the penalty is SAR 200. 😅

Here’s the official announcement of Riyadh Parking via their official X/Twitter account @Riyadh_Parking;

Saudi Government Warning: Strict Legal Penalties for Sharing Missile or Drone Impact Footage

March 28, 2026

The warning is self-explanatory and applies to all citizens and residents.

@MOISaudiArabia

@MODGovKSA

Saudi Arabia shoots down 4 ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh  

March 19, 2026

Arab News;

A drone was intercepted and destroyed as it approached the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, the ministry said at around midday.

Earlier, a ballistic missile launched toward Al-Kharj Governorate was shot down with debris from the interception falling near Prince Sultan Air Base “without causing any damage,” a spokesman said.

Another two ballistic missiles launched towards the Eastern Province were intercepted and destroyed in the evening.

Let’s all be careful out there!

DMW: Taiwan increases minimum wage of OFW to $967 or around ₱56K per month

October 2, 2025

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in a Facebook post announced that Taiwan has increase the minimum wage for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) to $967 (USD) or around ₱56K per month, and $6.45 (USD) for hourly rate that’s ₱375.04. DMW added that the new minimum wage will take effect on January 1, 2026.

In a report by Focustaiwan, “These wage hikes still require the approval from the Executive Yuan, which is expected to be given.”

Taiwan is known for it’s electronics factories, much like China, and I know a lot of colleague who are working in Taiwan and also planning to work in Taiwan, if approved, this will be another destination for OFW and fully maximized their technical skills.

Here’s the full text of Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announcement from the embedded FB post below;

OWWA reminds Filipino Workers to Legalize Status via Saudi Arabia Grace period until Nobyembre 10, 2025

August 12, 2025

In a recent Facebook post by Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to Filipino domestic workers in Saudi Arabia, that they take advantage of the six-month grace period for those with irregular status announced by Saudi Government. This window, spanning from May 11 to November 10, 2025, allows workers to legalize their employment without facing any fines or penalties.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and its Secretary, Hans Cacdac, are strongly encouraging all affected Filipino workers to immediately contact the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Al Khobar. The MWO will provide guidance on how to navigate the process using the Musaned system, which is managed by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

This initiative provides a safe and legal pathway for workers to regularize their status with the full support of the Philippine government. For assistance and more details, workers are advised to get in touch with their nearest MWO.

DMW to Shipowners: Reroute or Face Sanctions Amid Red Sea Dangers

July 10, 2025

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is urging shipowners and manning agencies to reroute vessels away from the high-risk Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers. This directive comes from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and is a response to recent attacks in the region.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stressed that simply taking safety precautions isn’t enough; avoiding these areas altogether is the best way to protect seafarers. He also mandated that shipowners and manning agencies report any scheduled passages through these high-risk zones and provide information on Filipino seafarers on board to the DMW’s welfare monitoring system. Failure to report will result in sanctions.

The DMW is actively monitoring the situation, coordinating with other agencies, and providing direct assistance and updates to the families of affected seafarers, emphasizing a “people-first approach” as directed by President Marcos.

You can read the full text of DMW statement below.

𝗗𝗠𝗪 𝗿𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱 ‘𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸, 𝘄𝗮𝗿-𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲’ 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀
In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the safety and security of Filipino seafarers, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reiterates its call for shipowners and licensed manning agencies (LMAs) to reroute their vessels away from high-risk areas, particularly traversing the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

In response to recent attacks in the Red Sea, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac reiterated key provisions of the Department Order No. 1, Series of 2024, ensuring protection of Filipino seafarers amid the increasing incidence of hijacking or armed violence against ships passing through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and surrounding areas.

“We asked shipowners carrying Filipino seafarers to please divert your voyagers. It is not enough to just say, we are taking the necessary safety precautions, the best way to spare our seafarers is to avoid the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden,” Secretary Cacdac emphasized.

In addition, he urged shipowners and manning agencies to report the scheduled passage of ships and those Philippine seafarers on board in our welfare monitoring system including information on deployment or knowledge of any scheduled passage to the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden, emphasizing that “Failure to report such a significant event will result in the imposition of sanctions under the DMW rules and regulations upon the manning agent and the principal.”

“The Department will not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against those who compromise the safety of our seafarers. We owe them protection, not promises,” Cacdac stressed.

The DMW is closely monitoring developments in the region and working in tandem with concerned agencies to coordinate support for seafarers and their families. The DMW already reached out to affected families via phone calls and zoom meeting to ensure that necessary assistance and updates are delivered directly.

“President Marcos has directed us to take a people-first approach—to make sure every Filipino seafarer is accounted for and that their families are given the attention and care they deserve,” Secretary Cacdac ended. ###

Philippine Embassy in Riyadh issue Advisory regarding

June 24, 2025

Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia published this on their official FB page @Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia

In light of recent developments in the region, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh encourages all Filipinos in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to closely monitor the news through reputable sources and check for advisories issued by Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, and local Saudi authorities.

The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah stand ready to provide the necessary assistance to all Filipinos in the Kingdom.

Riyadh Air announces Major Fleet Expansion at the 55th Edition of Paris Airshow with up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft

June 17, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air just announced an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft (25 firm orders with options for 25 more) at the 55th Edition of Paris Airshow. This strategic acquisition of long-range aircraft, capable of flying over 16,000 km, will allow Riyadh Air to connect the Saudi capital to over 100 global destinations by 2030, aligning with major upcoming events like Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.

This agreement with Airbus will make Riyadh Air’s fleet to a total of 182 ordered aircraft and allow them to offer a premium First-Class cabin experience, complementing their previously revealed Business Class and overall innovative guest service, with flights scheduled to begin in late 2025.

2 Dead and several injuries as SUV crash at NAIA Terminal 1

May 4, 2025

An SUV crashed into the entrance of NAIA Terminal 1 Departure area on Sunday morning May 4th. According to the police, two died and three injured because of the incident.

You can watch CCTV footage of the incident as posted by @ABC-CBN News.

In a follow-up report, LTO ordered the 90-day suspension of the license of the driver involved in the NAIA Terminal 1 accident and NAIA Infra Corp. will “provide immediate aid to the victims of the car crash.”

Not a good way to start the week! 🙁

DMW and NBI Shutdown Church Operating as Illegal Recruitment Front

April 30, 2025

Following President Marcos Jr.’s order to safeguard overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from illegal recruitment, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) conducted an entrapment operation on April 28, 2025, leading to the closure of a church in Baras, Rizal.

Migrant Workers Secretary Cacdac directed the shutdown of Faithful Promise Foundation Philippines Inc., also known as Faithful Promise of Jesus Christ the Greatest Master Phil. Inc. and Faithful Promise Church in the Philippines, located in Santo Niño Compound, Sitio Paenaan, Baras, Rizal. The church was found to be illegally recruiting individuals for jobs in Japan, Korea, and Papua New Guinea.

Undersecretary Olalia explained that the operation followed surveillance and the arrest of Pastora Esclarmonde Estrada Basalio, who was recruiting without DMW authorization. He stated that initial victims were fellow parishioners who reported the illegal activities, which were subsequently validated. Olalia noted instances of offloaded workers, ongoing illegal fee collection, and the recruitment of both departed and prospective OFWs. He emphasized that undocumented or improperly documented departures put lives at risk, underscoring the DMW’s concern for the well-being of OFWs and their families.

NBI Cavite North District Office Chief Nuqui revealed that the recruiter charged victims Php50,000 for processing and documents under the pretense of community work. He also reported receiving information about victims who arrived in other countries without the promised jobs.

Assistant Secretary Alcantara indicated that most victims were destined for construction and basic elementary occupations in Japan. The recruiter allegedly promised various jobs, including factory workers, tea pickers, clerks, accountants, mechanical engineers, and construction workers in Japan, Korea, and Papua New Guinea, with salaries ranging from Php36,000 to Php120,000.

Victims were reportedly issued tourist visas under the guise of missionary work and instructed to misrepresent their purpose to Immigration. Some were prevented from leaving, others were already deployed, and some were awaiting departure.

The closure operation was a joint effort by the DMW’s Migrant Workers Protection Bureau (MWPB) and the NBI. The DMW encourages individuals victimized by this religious group to report their cases to the MWPB via the hotline +63 2 8721-0619, email mwpb@dmw.gov.ph, or Facebook page (@dmwairtip.

Source: @dmw.gov.ph

CAAP airports to implement higher terminal fees starting April 21st

April 22, 2025

Here’s some bad news for the frequent flyer, sincce the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), through Memorandum Circular 019-2025, has announced that they will be increasing Passenger Service Charges (PSC) or terminal fees for the first time in about 20 years.

The adjustment will take effect for tickets purchased on or after April 21, 2025. Previous rates will apply for tickets bought before April 21st. CAAP explained that the increased fees will be use to fund necessary upgrades and improve passenger experience at CAAP-managed airports nationwide.

Below are the updated PSC/Terminal fees;

  • ₱900.00 – International Departures from International, Principal Class 1, and Principal Class 2 Airports
  • ₱350.00 – International Airports
  • ₱300.00 – Principal Class 1 Airports
  • ₱200.00 – Principal Class 2 Airports
  • ₱100.00 – Community Airports

CAAP said that the adjustment, driven by inflation and rising costs, will enable them to maintain safety standards and enhance airport facilities, especially in regional areas crucial for tourism and economic growth. Childen under 2 years old, OFW, Transite passenger and those who are denied entry are excempted from paying terminal fees.

Source: @caaphilippines

Tesla opening its first store in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

April 9, 2025

Tesla is about to open its first shop in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The launch event will be at the Bujairi Terrace on April 10. There the company will showcase their “global bestselling lineup and step into a world powered by solar energy, sustained by batteries, and driven by electric vehicles.”

Tesla also plans to show their newest product/service the Cybercab a.k.a. the Robotaxi, an upcoming two-passenger battery-electric self-driving car and Optimus, “a general purpose, bi-pedal, autonomous humanoid robot capable of performing unsafe, repetitive or boring tasks.”

If you are interested in attending the Tesla launch event, you can sign up here.

This article was originally published on allthingsev.net as Tesla opening its first store in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Secretary Enrique A. Manalo to visit Munich, Germany, London and UK to talk about Regional Developments and Strengthen Bilateral Relations

February 13, 2025

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo will travel to Munich, Germany, and London, UK, from February 14-19, 2025. His trip focuses on discussions with international partners regarding regional issues and strengthening bilateral ties, particularly concerning the rules-based international order and the rule of law.

In Munich (February 14-16), Secretary Manalo will participate in the 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC), a leading international security forum. He will lead a roundtable discussion on “Making Waves: Maritime Tensions in the Indo-Pacific” on February 15th. He also plans to meet with several counterparts on the sidelines of the MSC, including the US Secretary of State and the European Commission’s Vice-President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Following the MSC, Secretary Manalo will travel to London for bilateral meetings with UK officials. He will also engage with Asia House, a think tank connecting businesses and governments, and participate in a dialogue with Chatham House, a prominent international affairs think tank.

These visits are significant, occurring after the Philippines’ 70th anniversary of relations with Germany in 2024 and preceding the 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties with the UK in 2026.

Riyadh Metro Orange Line Is Now Open

January 5, 2025

Riyadh Public Transport (RPT) has announced that the Riyadh Metro Orange Line has officially open today, January 5, 2025. The announcement was made on their social media accounts and on Saudi Press Agency, more than a month after King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud inaugurated the Riyadh Metro.

Out of the 22 stations 5 stations will initially be operations; Jeddah Road (11), Tuwaiq (Station 12), Ad Douh (Station 13), Harun Al Rashid Road (Station 29), Al Naseem (Station 30) which connects to the Purple Line Station 21.

Together with the opening of Riyadh Metro Orange Line, RPT also announced the opening of three new stations on the Blue line: Al Murooj (Station 14), Bank Albilad (Station 21) and King Fahad Library (Station 22).

Philippine Airlines announces changes in the assigned terminal at the King Khalid International Airport

December 23, 2024

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced that starting December 30th, all flights in Riyadh will depart and arrive at Terminal 3 of King Khalid International Airport. PAL currently uses Terminal 2 for its arriving and departing flights, and the reassignment may be the result of the ongoing renovations and developments happening at the airport.

King Khalid International Airport is undergoing a major expansion and modernization program, which includes the redevelopment of several terminals. As part of this project, some airlines have been relocated to different terminals to accommodate the construction and improve passenger flow.

‘Every Filipino life is worth saving’: How PNoy stopped Mary Jane Veloso’s execution in 2015

December 18, 2024

‘EVERY FILIPINO LIFE IS WORTH SAVING’

Former Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Jose Rene Almendras reveals how the late former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III went to extraordinary lengths to save Mary Jane Velos just hours before her scheduled execution in 2015. #AtTheForefront

Just in case people forget or have amensia, this is where the foundation was formed that made it possible for Mary Jane Veloso to return home to the Philippines.

Philippines and Saudi Arabia Launch New Job Category for OFW

December 8, 2024

The Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has released guidelines for a new job category for Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia: Residential Support Worker/Cleaner. This development follows initial discussions between former DMW Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople and Saudi Minister of Human Resource and Social Development Ahmad bin Sulaiman AlRajhi, aiming to open up employment opportunities while prioritizing the protection of Filipino Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Key Differences from Domestic Work:

  • Skilled Visa: Residential support workers will be issued a skilled visa, unlike domestic workers.
  • Direct Employment with MRCs: Instead of working for individual households, they will be directly employed by Mega Recruitment Companies (MRCs).
  • Focus on Residential Cleaning: Their primary responsibility will be to maintain the cleanliness of residential areas, excluding childcare or personal care for employers.

Benefits and Protections:

  • Competitive Salary and Allowances: Workers will receive a monthly salary of 1,500 Saudi Riyals (SAR) plus a 500 SAR food allowance. Overtime pay will be provided for work exceeding eight hours per day as per Saudi law.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: MRC employers will provide accommodation, transportation, and health insurance for the workers.
  • No Placement Fees: MRCs are prohibited from charging placement fees to the workers.
  • Wage Increases and Reviews: Wages will automatically increase with any new minimum wage policies issued by DMW or the Saudi government and will be reviewed annually.
  • Protection Against Domestic Work: The guidelines explicitly prohibit workers from being assigned to domestic work duties.
  • Welfare Desk Officer: MRC employers must designate a welfare desk officer to monitor the workers’ conditions and address any employment-related issues.

Reduced Risks and Improved Welfare:
Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan emphasized that this new framework aims to minimize labor complaints, welfare cases, and exit visa problems by streamlining the employer-employee relationship.

Continuous Expansion of Employment Opportunities:
Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac assured that the DMW, in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Human Resource and Social Development, will continue to expand employment opportunities for Filipino workers in various sectors.

This new job category for Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia represents a significant step towards ensuring safe and dignified employment for OFWs while meeting the growing demand for skilled workers in the Kingdom.

You can read the full text of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Memo# here.

DFA implementing Philippine e-Visa system in India.

November 28, 2024

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has launched its e-Visa system for Indian nationals. Indian nationals may apply for e-Visas remotely by visiting the official website (evisa.gov.ph) and paying e-Visa fees online via direct bank transfer in a secure manner. This follows a successful trial period and aims to improve user experience. The soft launching and beta testing was done in August 2023.

Over 7,000 Indians have already used the system with positive feedback. The applicants were able to navigate the e-Visa system with general ease and reported positive feedback for its convenience, user-friendliness, and reliability.

Philippine e-Visa System is part of the Philippines’ digital transformation plan mentioned during the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on 22 July 2024.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman inaugurated the Riyadh Metro

November 28, 2024

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud inaugurated the Riyadh Metro, a major public transport project in Saudi Arabia. The metro network spans 176 kilometers across 6 lines and 85 stations. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud expressed gratitude to the King for his support and visionary leadership.

Riyadh Metro will initially open 3 lines by December 1st, then another 2 line on the 15th of December and the remaining line on the first week of January.

December 1, 2024

  • Line 1 – Blue
  • Line 4 – Gold/Yellow
  • Line 6 – Purple

December 15, 2024

  • Line 2 – Red
  • Line 5 – Green

January 5, 2024

  • Line 3 – Orange

The project was launched following comprehensive studies on Riyadh’s public transport needs and is designed to meet the city’s current and future mobility requirements. The Riyadh Metro is expected to significantly enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030.

Source: SPA, RCRC

290 Overseas Filipinos have returned home safely from Lebanon – DMW

October 28, 2024

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced that “a total of 290 overseas Filipinos from Lebanon have returned home safely via Philippine-government chartered flight landed today, October 26, 2024 at 3:03pm at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City.”

This is the largest batch of repatriates that is composed of 233 OFW with 13 dependents, and 21 Filipinos with 23 dependents. The returning Filipinos were accompanied by MWO Attaché to Alkhobar, Hector B. Cruz, Jr. from Beirut to Manila.

The repatriation of this batch brings to a total of 903 OFWs and 47 dependents from Lebanon who have been repatriated through the Government’s voluntary repatriation program, under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Last batch of OFW crew members of the the M/V Minoan Courage which was attacked by Houthi Rebels now back in the Philippines

October 23, 2024

DMW – Ten Filipino crew members from the M/V Minoan Courage safely returned to the Philippines on October 23, 2024. They were the last group of 21 Filipino seafarers aboard the Greek bulker that was attacked in the Red Sea on October 1. The previous groups of 11 seafarers returned on October 9 and October 13.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) worked together with the manning agency and the shipowner to bring the seafarers home. The agency provided hotel accommodations for the repatriates while they await psychiatric evaluations.

DMW and OWWA will provide assistance to the seafarers, including through the DMW AKSYON Fund. DMW Seabased Accreditation Bureau Director Augusto San Diego III, OWWA Director Falconi Millar, and manning agency representatives welcomed the seafarers upon their arrival.

via @dmw.gov.ph

76 more OFW arrived from Lebanon who – DMW

October 21, 2024

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announce that seventy-six overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with two dependents from Lebanon arrived safely at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Sunday, October 20, 2024, aboard Emirates EK 334.

This batch of repatriation brings the total number of 636 OFWs and 32 dependents from Lebanon who have been repatriated under the government’s voluntary repatriation program.

Department of Foreign Affairs’ Level 3 travel advisory for Lebanon still stands even though the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has escalated after “Hezbollah confirmed that its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, had been killed in an Israeli air strike on residential buildings in Beirut.”

DFA’s Level 3 travel advisory means repatriation is still voluntary for all OFW in the country.

Source: @dmw.gov.ph

Riyadh City as Seen on Space

October 19, 2024

European Space Agency;

Situated in the central region of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh serves as the nation’s legislative, financial, administrative, diplomatic and commercial hub, home to over seven million inhabitants.

Covering an area of around 1550 sq km, the city sits at approximately 600 m above sea level on the eastern part of the Najd plateau in the Arabian Peninsula. Like much of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh has a desert climate with extreme summer temperatures that can reach up to 50°C.

The image prominently features the city’s grid-like street system, which consists of square blocks measuring around two km one each side, forming an extensive network across the urban landscape.

Earth from Space: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

It’s hard to get lost when you know that you will always end up on same road if you keep turning right. Also, as beautiful as this picture, the photo of Riyadh at night that NASA released in 2012 is much dramatic and detailed.