PHILIPPINES: Thirty distressed OFWs who have flown home from Kuwait, landed at NAIA Terminal 1 on October 2 aboard Kuwait Airways flight KU417, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
OWWA staff and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) medical team who met them at the terminal. OWWA announced the OFWs’ arrival on its official Facebook page. Its staff along with the MIAA medical team gave the workers airport and welfare assistance as they landed, aiming for a smooth reception.
OWWA’s Regional Welfare Offices (RWOs) also promised to keep helping the group, including arranging their trips to their home provinces. The agency said it is working with other government offices so the workers are supported as they return to their families and communities.
The OWWA post drew replies from returnees who say they have been through the same process. Several commenters said they had been repatriated before. Their accounts are unverified, but they show what returning workers may expect.
One woman who said she came home on July 17, 2026 described getting food at the airport while OWWA staff processed her papers. She said she was then taken to an office, given fare money and escorted to her ride. Afterward, she said, she was told to go to the regional office covering her area to claim financial assistance.
Another commenter asked whether all distressed OFWs receive cash assistance, including those who leave with unfinished contracts. A returnee replied that they do, and that it goes faster for workers who arrive with a referral document.
A third said she returned in 2022 with an unfinished contract. OWWA, she said, handled most of her paperwork and helped her get to her province.
Not everyone had an easy time reaching the agency. Some commenters tried OWWA’s WhatsApp number. One said it worked well, while another could not get through because of poor service.
Home is only the first step
One page commenting on the post argued that getting workers home is not enough. It called for continued help for the 30 returnees, including safe travel to their provinces, reintegration, livelihood support and assistance with any unresolved employment claims.
If you’re in a tough spot in Kuwait
Whether a worker gets cash aid or other benefits depends on the case. Before acting on tips from social media, check with OWWA or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) about what applies to you.
If you’re dealing with unpaid wages, abuse or a runaway case, you can go to the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait or POLO directly. You may also reach out to the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Kuwait, for assistance involving issues that the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) office is in charge of. The OWWA post doesn’t include contact numbers or office hours, so you will have to confirm them through the agencies’ official channels.
Note: To stay safe and secure, make sure to always be careful with anyone who offers to arrange your exit for a fee. Check your status with Philippine and Kuwaiti authorities first.