April 20, 2024 - The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), through its Migrant Workers Offices (MWO) in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is working with local authorities for the repatriation of the remains of three overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who tragically lost their lives during the severe flooding that occurred in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week.
MWO-Dubai and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Office have met with the next of kin of the three OFWs. They have explained the procedures needed to facilitate the repatriation of their remains back to the Philippines.
Two Filipinas died from suffocation inside their vehicle at the height of the flooding on Wednesday. A third OFW victim, a male, died from injuries sustained from an accident when his vehicle fell into a sinkhole also on Wednesday.
Additionally, two other OFWs, both male, suffered injuries from the vehicular accident that happened in the sinkhole. They are currently recuperating from their injuries, as reported by MWO-Dubai officers who were able to visit them in their hospital rooms.
Meanwhile, DMW and OWWA personnel are working with the Philippine Consulate General at the Dubai International Airport to assist OFWs and other Filipinos whose flights were delayed or rescheduled due to the severe rains and weather.
Philippine Airlines (PAL), Emirates Airlines, and Cebu Pacific (CebuPac) were among the airlines that had delayed or rescheduled flights. DMW, OWWA, and Consulate General airport teams provided stranded Filipino passengers with food packs, essential personal items, and airline flight assistance to help them on their way.
MWO-Dubai reports that the weather is improving, although large areas around the Gulf State remain flooded from what UAE state weather authorities say is the heaviest downpour in 75 years.
MWO-Abu Dhabi reports it was able to distribute food and relief packs to about 800 OFWs living and working in the Al Touba district, Al Ain, one of the remote areas badly affected by the severe weather disturbance. They are expected to return and provide further assistance to the community as needed.
MWOs Dubai and Abu Dhabi will continue monitoring the situation and provide the necessary support and assistance to OFWs. The DMW is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all overseas Filipino workers during this challenging time.