One of 64 Filipinos who availed of visa amnesty in UAE says ‘Feel at peace going home’

Orly, 43, and Joan, 35, along with her three-month-old son, are part of the first batch of Filipinos to be repatriated back to the Philippines under the ongoing UAE visa amnesty programme. A total of 64 overstaying Filipinos sought repatriation assistance, with 35 from Abu Dhabi and 29 from Dubai, who left for Manila via Philippine Airlines. Orly, after 16 years of being away, is finally going home to reunite with his family, consisting of his two daughters. He worked in the UAE for various companies, facing financial struggles and overstaying fines, which accumulated to over Dh60,000.
Orly’s plans upon returning home include tightly embracing his grown-up daughters and providing for his family’s needs. Despite the challenges he faced, including the passing of his mother during the start of the amnesty programme, Orly remains grateful for the opportunities provided by the UAE government. Joan, on the other hand, worked as a sales staff in Dubai but faced an absconding case due to unpaid wages. The amnesty programme lifted her case, allowing her to leave without any fines.
The amnesty programme covers all types of visas, allowing those with financial and legal issues to rectify their status without facing re-entry bans. This opportunity has been a blessing for many, including Joan, who expressed interest in potentially working in Dubai again in the future. Philippine officials expressed gratitude towards the UAE government for the generosity in waiving fines and penalties for the repatriates, ensuring they can leave with dignity and the option to return with the appropriate visa.
Consul-general Marford Angeles acknowledged the challenges faced by many overseas Filipino workers in securing permanent employment in the UAE. The efforts of Philippine diplomatic staff and officials from the Migrant Workers Office in assisting the repatriates were commendable, ensuring a smooth transition for those returning to the Philippines. Overall, the amnesty programme has provided hope and relief for many Filipinos who were struggling in the UAE, allowing them to start anew and reunite with their families after years of separation.