MANILA, Philippines — Overseas Filipino workers who were affected by the recent runway accident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport may still avail cash assistance from the Philippine government.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said it is expecting more OFWs to avail themselves of the P5,000 financial assistance.
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“We are releasing a reasonable amount from our Assistance to Nationals Fund as we understand that a number of our kababayan remain stranded and do not have funds to meet their daily needs,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said.
On Wednesday, the DFA Office of Migrant Workers Affairs released financial assistance to 178 stranded overseas workers.
OFWs who have already left the country may still avail themselves of the financial assistance at the nearest Philippine Embassy or consulate general abroad, the DFA said.
"Stranded OFWs who were eventually able to leave for host countries may also avail themselves of financial assistance at Philippine embassies and consulates general abroad by presenting their passports, original and reissued tickets, certificates of employment, and overseas employment certificates," the DFA said.
The DFA will continue to release the cash assistance to affected OFWs at NAIA Terminals 1, 2 and 3 until August 24 and at the DFA home office in Pasay City until August 31.
Those claiming the cash assistance at the DFA home office or at the NAIA should present their airline ticket showing original date of departure, the reissued ticket showing new date of departure, employment contract and overseas employment certificate, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Sarah Lou Arriola said.
Philippine embassies and consulates general abroad are also ready to assist OFWs by issuing certifications and making representations with foreign employers if needed to explain their delay in arrival.
Operations at the country's main gateway were paralyzed when a plane from China skidded off the runway due to poor visibility last Thursday.
The incident affected around 165 international and local flights as the main runway of the airport was closed for over 32 hours.
Xiamen Air has issued an apology for the mishap and disruption on operations at the Manila airport.
"Xiamen Airlines sincerely apologize to all passengers affected by the incident and will do everything in its power to assist passangers," the Chinese airlines said in a statement.