Filipino Overseas Workers (OFWs) are leaving tonight via chartered flight organized in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy and Travel agent. The third flight via Kuwait Airways carries three hundred fifteen OFWs inclusive of one hundred and fifteen household helpers from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) shelter in Kuwait.
Travel agent Paulita Lundang, responsible for three consecutive chartered flights scheduled for June 28, July 1 and July 12, stated that more flights are currently being organized to allow OFWs wanting to return home either for good or indefinite return.
In a brief interview with Lundang, she said that the demand for more chartered flights back to the Philippines has been brought about by OFWs affected with no work no pay and some companies have closed down or some were asked to return home for good by employers. “We have good projects and billions worth, recent one is in Abu Dhabi but due to the closure of some departments, they decided to postpone the project after three years. What am I going to do here and with project visa, it’s difficult to find a job, so I finally decided to return home for good,” said Norman Cruz, a civil engineer by profession.
Janet Iliona, a salon worker said that employer finally decided to close the shop, and she has not received her salary for the past four months, and had not received help from her employer. “I had to borrow money to buy food and some friends have given food donations to me. It was heartbreaking because I have never begged for food and I had to survive, so I started cutting, coloring hair and nail services to clients at home till I have enough to buy a ticket home. I think Kuwait will never be the same the way I knew it and I’m glad I’m leaving today,” explained Iliona.
Among the 315 passengers on the third chartered flight are from the shelter and some have encountered serious problems with their employers and sought the assistance of local police and later were transferred to the shelter. “My employer just sent me away and I did not know where to go and I’m grateful OWWA is here to take me in and help me through these problems. We are thankful for them,” stated Mylene Llanora,a household helper working for two years in same employer. Succeeding chartered flights will be announced soon and OFWs may contact the number: 66738799 Paulita Lundang for booking of tickets and more information.
Ricky Laxa / Staff Writer
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