Manila: Twenty-two Filipinos victimized by human traffickers were repatriated back to the country from Cambodia on Wednesday amid the Department of Migrant Workers' (DMW) intensified efforts to assist distressed Filipinos abroad.

According to Philippines News Agency, a whole-of-government approach, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive, made the repatriation possible. The successful repatriation was achieved through the coordinated efforts of the DMW Rapid Response Team in Cambodia, the Migrant Workers Office in Singapore, and the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh, emphasizing the government's ongoing commitment to bringing distressed Filipinos home safely and supporting their path toward recovery and reintegration.

The group, accompanied by DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay, arrived at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City early Wednesday morning aboard Philippine Airlines flight PR 2622 from Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, the Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team immediately conducted health assessments and other medical assistance for the Filipino workers.

Meanwhile, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided transportation and temporary accommodations for the returnees. They will also receive free legal assistance from the DMW Migrant Workers Protection Bureau and members of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking. Additionally, financial assistance and welfare services will be available to help the returnees recover from their experience and reintegrate into their communities.