A total of 138 stranded Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Lebanon are calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to facilitate their immediate repatriation amidst ongoing conflict in the country.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Vigan, Bombo International News Correspondent Hilda Jane Tion reported that these OFWs are staying in a shelter while dealing with various legal and personal issues.
Tion, who was repatriated on September 8, 2024, expressed disappointment over missing the chartered flight on October 25 due to a travel ban.
She later learned on December 19 that there were no charges against her, fueling frustration over the delayed repatriation.
She also alleged being penalized for a video she recorded seeking help for stranded OFWs. Despite their situation, she acknowledged that the Philippine Embassy has been providing food assistance.
However, the lack of employment remains a pressing issue, affecting their families back home.
Caroline Rizardo explained that some OFWs were excluded from repatriation flights due to ongoing legal cases.
These cases allegedly stemmed from the implementation of the Kafala System, where employers filed complaints against workers who reached out to Immigration as instructed.
The stranded OFWs hope for immediate action to resolve their plight and reunite with their families in the Philippines.