A total of 299 Filipinos safely returned to the Philippines on March 6, 2026, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This repatriation is a result of the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran.

According to Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the group consists of 145 females, 127 males, 17 children, and 10 infants. The repatriates arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 via Emirates Airlines Flight 336.

UNTV News and Rescue correspondent Ryan Lacanlale reported that the majority of the passengers were travelers whose flights were cancelled. The airlines have to fulfill their commitment and responsibility to the passengers in helping them to get back to the Philippines. 

Among 299 passengers, 23 of them are OFWs together with 2 children. Most of them were able to return due to existing pre-booked flights.

In a social media post, DMW Sec. Cacdac extended his gratitude to the government of the UAE and other host countries for their cooperation to ensure the safety and security of the Filipinos. 

“We thank the UAE government, the local government of Dubai sa pag-aalaga sa ating mga Kababayan. Also, to the government of host countries [Middle East] involved in this crisis for their safety protocols and defense system in place,”  he said via DMW online issued statement

The DMW assured returnees would receive necessary assistance from the department and other concerned agencies, including:

• DMW: Financial assistance 
• OWWA: Accommodation and transport services
• DOH: Medical services
• DSWD: Psychosocial support

No final schedule has been announced regarding the next batch of repatriation.

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