Reverse migration during Pandemic: Narratives on the quest for survival of returned migrant workers in the Philippines

Abstract

According to the International Migration Report of 2019 conducted by the United Nations, about 272 million people are estimated to be international migrants worldwide in 2019. Among the countries of Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, the largest sending countries of the region during 2000-2020 were China, Philippines, Myanmar, and Indonesia, while the largest receiving countries were Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia. Existing research on return migration and reintegration have shown how countries in Southeast Asia including Philippines are dealing with the return of migrant workers using governments' efforts to reintegrate returnees into their community. However, while programs for returning migrant workers are evident in different studies, the issue of its efficacy during the ongoing health crisis remains a mystery. Using a narrative research design under qualitative research methodology, the researchers conducted in-depth interview from seven returned migrants. The study aims to explore the experiences of return migrant workers during this current and ongoing global pandemic. Specifically, it answer the questions such as the challenges encountered by OFWs during repatriation and upon their arrival in the country and the government support towards returned migrants. From the narratives gathered on the participants, the study found a relevant connection between the pandemic and the livelihood capability, emotional well-being, as well as problematic social relations due to the stigma attached to migrant workers. Still, despite these challenges, having a positive outlook and hope help the returned migrants to navigate though their problems and current scenarios. During the repatriation, the study also highlighted rigorous process experienced by migrant workers before and upon their return in the country mandated by the Philippine Government to restrain Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) transmission. In terms of reintegration, various government programs are also identified to address the needs of migrant workers. Nevertheless, the study found out that there are factors that affect successful implementation of government programs which include uninformed and misinformed returnees, lack of information dissemination, and limited funds of the government.