A 69-year-old Filipino expat, Ernesto Arnel Tawat, paralysed and struggling in Sharjah, hopes to return to the Philippines through the UAE’s visa amnesty program after 31 years. Once a thriving chef and entrepreneur, Ernesto's life took a tragic turn in 2006 when his car fatally struck a pedestrian in Sharjah.
He served over a year in jail and was ordered to pay Dh203,000 in blood money. Ernesto and his wife, Teresa, managed to pay Dh110,000, but financial struggles halted further payments. The collapse of their business in 2015, coupled with Ernesto's deteriorating health, left the family in dire straits.
Living in a rundown Sharjah apartment, the couple depends on their daughter Tina's modest income. Tina, born and raised in the UAE, struggles with chronic asthma while supporting her parents. Despite applying for amnesty in 2018, Ernesto’s request was denied due to unpaid blood money.
With the UAE extending its visa amnesty scheme until December 31, 2024, Ernesto hopes to finally return home. “All I want is a second chance,” he said tearfully. His wife Teresa believes returning to the Philippines is their best option, offering a chance for family support and dignity.
