Sudan (Encyclopedia Britannica)

Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo has hailed the Philippine government's efforts to bring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) out of danger's way in Sudan.

“I commend the efforts of our government agencies and embassy personnel for their swift action in responding to this crisis. We must continue to work together to ensure the successful and timely repatriation of our fellow Filipinos in Sudan," Salo said.

"I especially commend Ambassador Tago for his unwavering efforts in leading the repatration despite the accident he encountered, in which we are thankful that he is safe,” added the solon, who chairs the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.

The DFA has informed the committee that the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, Egypt led by Ambassador Ezzedin Tago is coordinating the repatriation efforts, and that arrangements are being made to ensure the safe and immediate return of the OFWs.

“We greatly appreciate the DFA’s proactive engagement with the Congress and Senate regarding this emergency. We are ready to help in any way we can,” Salo said.

According to the DFA, there are 750 registered Filipinos in Sudan, and as of April 26, 2023, 456 Filipinos have already evacuated Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, to a safer place for their eventual repatriation. There may be more requests for repatriation in the next few days, the agency said.

“The Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs will continue to closely monitor the situation in Sudan and provide support to the repatriation efforts,” assured Salo, who said that "the safety and well-being of OFWs remain our government’s top priority".

“The civil war in Sudan has caused untold suffering and uncertainty for our fellow Filipinos working in the country, and we must act with urgency to bring them back to the Philippines,” he continued.

"We owe it to our overseas Filipinos to ensure their safety and well-being, especially during times of crisis. We assure their families that their welfare is being taken care of by our government," Salo concluded.