DFA sets travel exemptions for returning OFWs to Libya

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in consultation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), approved travel exemptions for some overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have existing and valid contracts with their employers in Libya.

Overseas Filipino workers falling under the following categories are allowed to return to Libya:

• Household service staff employed by diplomats in foreign embassies
• Those employed by the United Nations and other international organizations in Libya
• OFWs working off-shore in oil rig platforms, provided that they will not pass through mainland Libya nor spend their vacation there
• Those working for multinational companies, government hospitals and schools as well as for the Libyan National Oil Company.
• Filipinos married to Libyan nationals

These OFWs will also need to secure a letter from their employers guaranteeing their safety, security and repatriation in case the situation in Libya deteriorates and imminent danger to their lives and and well-being is present.

DOLE and POEA will announce the implementation date and issue the guidelines to be followed to avail of the exemptions.

The DFA wishes to highlight its unwavering commitment to ensure the welfare and safety of our nationals overseas while at the same time remaining sensitive to the clamor and needs.

Despite these travel exemptions, Crisis Alert Level 3 remains in effect. The DFA reiterates its advice to Filipino nationals in Libya to avail themselves of the voluntary repatriation program of the Philippine Government. - PNA