Overseas Filipino Workers on Saipan and Tinian affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku received $100 cash assistance from the Philippine government during a five‑day distribution held May 26 to May 30 at the Beach Garden Hotel in Garapan.
The aid was provided through the Migrant Workers Office and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration after the agencies requested emergency funding following the typhoon.
Labor Attaché Saul T. De Vries, based at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., said the assistance was intended to help workers recover from the storm’s impact.
“When we heard about the typhoon, we immediately requested funding so we could assist our kababayans here in the CNMI,” he said.
About 1,600 workers registered for the program, with the team expecting to reach up to 2,000 beneficiaries.
The Migrant Workers Office prioritized workers who pre‑registered online, a system De Vries said was necessary to avoid confusion and ensure accurate budgeting. Walk‑ins were accepted on a case-by-case basis.
Some Filipino residents questioned why green card holders and other long‑term residents were not eligible. De Vries said the limitation is set by law and that other Philippine agencies may offer separate assistance.
De Vries said the team is prepared to request additional funding if needed. “I know the assistance is limited, but that is how it is,” he said. “Our government wants to assure you that you will not be left behind.”
