Stranded OFW in Dubai appeals to Philippine gov't to allow him to go home

A stranded overseas Filipino worker in Dubai appealed to the national government to lift the travel ban and allow him to go back home.

According to JP Soriano's report on "24 Oras Weekend" on Sunday, Erwin Gomez said his contract ended in April but he has yet to return home due to the travel restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

He was supposed to go home in July but his flight was canceled five times.

"Mabigat talaga sa damdamin na para kang nakakulong sa bahay. Ayaw kong lumabas kasi wala na rin akong panggastos," Gomez said.

(I'm depressed from being trapped at the house. I don't want to go out because I'm out of money.)

He added that he has been fined for overstaying since July 18 because his visa has expired.

He said he already included himself in the national government's repatriation program but officials have yet to contact him.

Gomez said he is currently staying in his company's quarters but he does not know until when he will be allowed to stay there.

Earlier, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai said stranded OFWs in Dubai may contact their hotlines for repatriation concerns:

• (+971) 56-501-5756
• (+971)56-501-5755
• (+921)4-220-7100
• dubai.pcg@dfa.gov.ph

— Ma. Angelica Garcia/DVM, GMA News