Singapore Military Plane Rescues 24 Pinoys Stranded in Saudi Arabia — ASEAN Solidarity Talaga
In the middle of the escalating Middle East crisis, 24 Filipinos got a surprise lifeline — a Singapore Air Force military transport plane that flew them out of Saudi Arabia and back home safely. Talk about unexpected help from our ASEAN neighbor.
Singaporean Ambassador to Manila Constance See confirmed on Friday, March 13, that the Republic of Singapore Air Force deployed its A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft to Saudi Arabia to evacuate Singaporean nationals. Because there were extra seats available, 24 Filipinos along with citizens from Brunei, Indonesia, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam were able to hitch a ride home.
"This is really ASEAN solidarity in action, neighbours helping neighbours in difficult moments," Ambassador See said. She noted that ASEAN countries have historically assisted each other during crises, and this was no different.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, through the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, coordinated with Singapore to facilitate the departure. Meanwhile, the Migrant Workers Office and OWWA in Jeddah helped book OFW flights to Manila and provided financial assistance to those who needed it.
The DFA expressed its "sincere appreciation to the Government of Singapore for this benevolent act." With thousands of Filipino workers still in the Middle East region as conflict continues to disrupt commercial flights, every successful repatriation counts. Hopefully, more help like this is on the way for our kababayan abroad.
Source: Manila Bulletin
