This year presented a mix of triumphs and challenges for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). While new policies aimed to safeguard their rights, longstanding issues such as human trafficking and abuse remained pressing concerns.

One of the year’s most significant developments was the renewed momentum in the case of Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina on death row in Indonesia. After almost 15 years in prison, Veloso arrived in the Philippines on 18 December and was made possible by a “practical arrangement” by both Philippines and Indonesia signed on 6 December.

Amplifying voices through Usapang OFW

DAILY TRIBUNE took an active role in addressing these challenges through its Usapang OFW digital show, which provided assistance to workers returning to the Philippines and resolving critical issues.

Among those helped were OFWs in Saudi Arabia, who faced abuses such as withheld passports, mistreatment by employers, and severe health problems.

One recent case involved Hazel Fernandez, a worker in Riyadh who suffered from serious health complications. Her Philippine recruitment agency delayed assistance, insisting she be “sold” to another employer to recover agency fees — a stark example of the exploitation many workers endure.

Repatriation from conflict zones

The challenges faced by OFWs in conflict zones became more evident this year. Many were caught in the turmoil of unstable regions, their lives at danger as they navigated the risks of working abroad.

Since October 2023, thousands of OFWs and their families have been repatriated to safety, with 2,532 workers and 89 dependents returning from the Middle East.

According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary for Foreign Employment and Welfare Felicitas Bay on 28 December, this number consists of 1,402 from Lebanon, 1,122 from Israel, with six from the West Bank and two from Gaza.

Yet for many, the dangers didn’t end on land. Seafarers, who often risked their lives far from shore, faced their own dangers.

In August, 23 Filipino crew members aboard the Greek tanker MT Sounion found themselves under attack by Houthi militants in the Red Sea. A missile strike damaged their ship, but their lives were spared when the French Navy intervened, rescuing the crew and bringing them safely to port.

This year also brought more security for Filipino seafarers. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September signed the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. This law will offer better protection and support for seafarers.

Upcoming opportunities

Despite these adversities, OFWs continued to fuel the Philippine economy.

Remittances reached USD 22.22 billion (approximately P1.286 billion) as of January, an increase from USD 21.58 billion (P1.240 billion) in the same period last year. This growth persisted through October, with personal remittances rising to USD 3.42 billion, (P198 billion) reflecting a 2.7 percent increase year-on-year.

Moving forward, opportunities for OFWs are expanding.