Caunan Saudi-bound for Hamat OFWs

Several social media posts over the past week alleged that some overseas Filipino workers employed by the Hamat Transportation Co. have been evicted from their accommodations in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

DAILY TRIBUNE on Tuesday sought comment from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Administrator (OWWA) Patricia Yvonne Caunan on how many affected OFWs have received assistance to date.

Caunan said she will be traveling to Saudi Arabia by Thursday and will provide further updates on the situation.

On 5 August, Caunan said in a statement that three OFW drivers of Hamat Transport had already been moved to government shelters.

“Despite the long and thorough discussions, we were allowed to first entrust the three OFWs to our care. Negotiations are continuing to help the others,” the OWWA chief said in Filipino.

The reason for the eviction of the OFWs from their accommodations remains unclear. However, Caunan noted the importance of understanding that laws in Saudi Arabia differ from those of the Philippines.

She explained that a worker can be reported as huroob or “absconding” if the employer has not cleared them.

“If this happens, they may face a case, be placed under a travel ban, and have difficulty returning home.”

She added that the agency is ready to transfer more affected OFWs to government accommodations but stressed that negotiations with their respective employers are still ongoing.