“Don’t panic. Remain calm and please refrain from spreading unnecessary posts on Facebook that scare people,” urged Philippine Charge d’ Affaires Atty Raul H Dado as he sought everyone’s cooperation in disseminating the correct information after an alleged “news advisory” coming from the embassy went viral on the social media about the planned crackdown on illegal residents.
The Ministry of Interior announced recently the biggest crackdown that it will launch against more than 100,000 residence violators in Kuwait prompting overstaying expatriates including undocumented Filipino workers to panic.
According to the MoI, there are around 6,700 overstaying Filipinos in Kuwait. “Please don’t scare your fellow Filipinos.
Please don’t post advisories without consulting us. We have already met with the Kuwaiti authorities and our team is ready to assist all those undocumented Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who want to go home before the planned massive crackdown is launched,” explained Dado.
He reminded all Filipinos to follow the laws of the host country and go home if their residence visa has expired. “We are ready to help all undocumented (OFWs) go home by expediting their travel documents and endorsing them to the Kuwait Immigration authorities.
Our mass repatriation is ongoing following the procedures set by the MoI. Those who want to go home may signify their intention and be included in the mass repatriation,” outlined Dado. He announced that those undocumented OFWs who want to go home may go to the Philippine Embassy Extension Office in Hateen area to list down their names and apply for travel documents. Its location is at Block 2, Street 217, Villa 42, Hateen area.
Those undocumented OFWs who want to be repatriated may also call the Embassy’s Repatriation Hotline 98005115. Meanwhile, the embassy’s other hotlines are 65002612 (Assistance to Nationals Unit) and 69902264 (Rescue & Medical Emergency). “Please do not hesitate to come to the embassy, submit your names and apply for travel documents.
With the help of the Kuwaiti authorities, we will try our best to fast track your repatriation. Always remember that the only thing to fear is fear itself,” he assured. Dado disclosed that the Philippine Embassy will be issuing a detailed advisory for its nationals over the weekend to clarify matters on the planned crackdown and disseminate repatriation guidelines.
By: Michelle Fe Santiago Arab Times Staff
Source : Arab Times
