PRESS RELEASE
WDC-51-2026
15 September 2026
Embassy Press and Information Section
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Migrant Workers Office–Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (MWO-OWWA) repatriated seven (7) distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Saipan on 14 September 2026. This follows the first batch of four (4) repatriates in July this year. The OFWs sought repatriation assistance after being adversely affected by the economic downturn in Saipan.
The departing group includes elderly and undocumented OFWs who lack the financial means to purchase airfare. Their travel tickets were fully funded through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) AKSYON Fund and the OWWA Emergency Repatriation Fund (ERF). The cremains of two (2) deceased OFWs were also flown home with the group, with cremation expenses likewise shouldered by OWWA.
The repatriation was coordinated with the Philippine Consulate General in Agana, Guam, which facilitated the required travel documents and certifications. The Filipino community in Saipan, led by Atty. Ariel Mariano, also assisted in the repatriation efforts.
During a pre-departure orientation, the MWO-OWWA team, led by Welfare Officer Mae Codilla, briefed the repatriates on their flight itineraries and the designated airport assistance available during their layover in Hong Kong and upon arrival in Manila.
Atty. Mariano likewise advised the OFWs to complete their eTravel registration before arriving in the Philippines. He also guided the group on recording their departure through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home application.
Labor Attaché Saul De Vries said the Philippine Government, through the DMW and OWWA, remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of distressed Filipino migrant workers and ensuring their safe return home.