MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is set to repatriate 45 OFWs in the first week of July, Malacañang announced.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the returning OFWs will arrive in three separate batches. Based on updates from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), eight are expected to arrive on July 3, 12 on July 4, and 25 on July 6.

“This development proves the government remains steadfast in assisting Filipinos abroad affected by the said conflict,” Castro said in a Palace briefing.

“Pati po ang pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan ay makikita po. Kaya po ang sinasabi na walang ginagawa at walang plano ang pamahalaan patungkol sa ating mga kababayan in relation to the Israel-Iran conflict, iyan po ay isang malaking kasinungalingan,” she added.

So far, the government has successfully repatriated 26 OFWs from areas affected by the conflict, while 195 others have opted not to return home, Castro said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in a statement on June 23, assured that OFWs returning from conflict zones will receive immediate support, including PhP150,000 in aid, temporary accommodation, transportation, and livelihood assistance through training vouchers.

The President also committed sustained government aid for OFWs who decide to stay in the country permanently. This includes skills training, job matching, and startup capital for those interested in opening small businesses.