A total of 41 Filipino seafarers have safely returned to the Philippines aboard three different flights on Sunday, 20 September, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

This includes 14 seafarers from the M/T Nostos who arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay Citt aboard flight GF154, 11 seafarers from the M/V Bam Espina who arrived at Terminal 3 aboard flight CX901, and 16 seafarers from the M/V Gas Mary who arrived at Terminal 1 aboard flight SV862.

Upon their arrival, they were immediately met and assisted by OWWA, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) medical team to ensure smooth arrival processing and to provide the necessary airport, medical, and welfare assistance.

As part of the immediate assistance for repatriated seafarers, they were provided with special financial assistance. Their licensed manning agencies also collaborated on post-arrival arrangements, including medical check-ups, temporary accommodation, and onward travel prior to their final return to their respective families.

Alagang OWWA does not end at the airport. Their respective OWWA Regional Welfare Offices (RWOs) will continue to assist the returning seafarers upon their reintegration into their communities—including referrals to appropriate livelihood assistance, employment facilitation, counseling, and other welfare and reintegration programs, based on their needs and qualifications.

OWWA continuous to assist overseas Filipino workers and Filipino seafarer—from immediate response in times of crisis, to their safe return and fresh start together with their families.