PH gov’t assures OFW safety as Middle East tensions escalate

Following recent airstrikes and retaliatory missile launches in the Middle East, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is ramping up their efforts to monitor the safety of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the region. 

Amid the rising tensions triggered by coordinated airstrikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, officials confirmed that no Filipinos have been reported as casualties so far.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, on March 1, said that the department is in constant communication with the DMW, Philippine embassies, and OFWs across the Middle East.

“We do not want to cause unwarranted panic among our workers abroad,” Cacdac told reporters, reminding OFWs to adhere to safety protocols from host-country authorities and Philippine diplomatic posts.

Cacdac emphasized that the government is not yet ordering mass or mandatory repatriation of OFWs.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration also issued safety advisories urging Filipinos in conflict-affected countries to follow official announcements and identify nearby shelters.

Bacolod City’s local government launched a hotline and help desk to assist families of OFWs in the Middle East and coordinate with national agencies.

Senator Risa Hontiveros urged the government to ensure sufficient resources and inter-agency cooperation to protect OFWs who may decide to return home.

Officials are currently continuing to monitor developments closely.