Twenty Filipinos from Qatar returned home to the country on Sunday, April 5, as part of ongoing government efforts to repatriate nationals affected by Middle East tensions.

According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), nineteen of the repatriates were overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), while one was a relative.

They arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 aboard Qatar Airways Flight QR928.

The DMW said the repatriates received assistance including financial aid from DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), as well as medical support from the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Medical Team.

OWWA also provided food, plane tickets to their home provinces, and temporary hotel accommodations while their onward travel arrangements were being finalized, the agency said.

This follows the return of 67 Filipinos from Qatar on Saturday, April 4.

The government said it continues to facilitate the safe return of Filipinos from various countries amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Authorities also urged OFWs to coordinate with various government agencies for additional support such as skills training, livelihood assistance, and job placement.

The DMW further said that the repatriation and aid program is in line with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure the safe return and continued support of OFWs affected by the crisis in the Middle East.