First repatriation flight from Dubai arrives amid Middle East tensions
The first repatriation flight carrying 299 Filipinos from the Middle East arrived in Manila early Wednesday as tensions continue to escalate in the region, Malacañang said.
The Emirates flight EK336 from Dubai landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 at 6:45 a.m., Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez said.
The passenger manifest included repatriated Filipinos and other affected travelers who sought to return home as the security situation in the Middle East evolved.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac led government officials in welcoming the arrivals.
A total of 299 passengers, including infants and children, were on board the flight.
According to Gomez, the flight departed Dubai at 9:55 p.m. Philippine time and carried Filipinos, including overseas workers, tourists, and other travelers who had been temporarily stranded amid the ongoing tensions in the region.
The Palace said government agencies continue to coordinate closely to assist Filipinos abroad should conditions further escalate.
Officials earlier assured the public that contingency measures remain in place, with coordination ongoing among relevant government agencies and airline partners to support nationals who may need to return to the Philippines.