DUBAI: Nearly 3,000 overseas Filipino workers in Dubai and the Northern Emirates have applied for Philippine government financial aid after being affected by the Middle East crisis.
The Migrant Workers Office in Dubai said it received 2,866 applications across three application days. The online portal filled up quickly each time it opened, showing the high number of OFWs seeking support.
On April 28, 822 applications came in within 20 minutes. On May 1, 1,027 applications were submitted in 57 minutes. On May 5, 1,017 applications were received in just 25 minutes.
Labor Attache John Rio Bautista said the fast response showed that many OFWs were in need.
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Aid Slots Filled in Minutes
Qualified OFWs may receive AED730, or about ₱12,000, under the financial assistance program.
Bautista said the first tranche of funding can cover 3,271 OFWs. However, not all submitted applications will automatically be approved. Ineligible and incomplete applications will be deducted from the total number.
MWO Dubai said the online portal needs to pause between application days so staff can review documents and process payouts for those who qualify.
Salary Cuts Top the List of Problems
Based on MWO Dubai’s report, salary reduction was the most common reason OFWs applied for aid.
Salary cuts made up 45.2 percent of applications on May 5. They also accounted for 46.6 percent on May 1 and 41.6 percent on April 28.
Other reported work problems included unpaid leave, job termination, and “no work, no pay” arrangements.
Most applicants came from the tourism sector, food and beverage companies, the services sector, and wholesale and retail trade.
Approved OFWs Start Receiving Payouts
MWO Dubai said 688 applications from April 28 were approved. Out of these, 571 were forwarded to the designated remittance center, and all 571 received their aid as of May 4.
For the May 1 batch, 849 approved applications were also forwarded to the remittance center.
More Funding May Be Needed Soon
Bautista said the first wave of funds is almost used up, with fewer than 1,000 more applicants expected to be accommodated under the current amount.
MWO Dubai may need to ask Manila for fresh funding if demand continues.
For now, affected OFWs should monitor official MWO Dubai and DMW announcements, prepare complete documents early, and submit only accurate information once the portal opens again.
