MANILA – The Philippine government is intensifying efforts to bring home overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, as more workers express the desire to return.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reported Thursday that 178 OFWs in Israel have now requested repatriation — a sharp rise from the 85 recorded shortly after Iran’s recent missile strikes.
“Umaasa tayo na madadagdagan pa ito. The number is expected to continue growing,” Cacdac said, noting the sustained interest among OFWs to return home voluntarily.
Preparations are now underway for the first repatriation batch, though operational details are withheld for security reasons. “Rest assured, these OFWs will be brought home safely and swiftly,” he added.
Since Israel remains under Alert Level 2, repatriation remains voluntary. No mandatory order has been issued, but President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed concerned agencies to stay on high alert and mobilize all necessary resources.
The DMW, in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), has already repatriated nearly 4,000 OFWs since October 2023 — about 2,000 each from Israel and Lebanon.
Most affected OFWs are caregivers, and many of their homes were damaged by the conflict. Despite displacement, many still live with their employers or friends. For those in need, temporary shelters are ready, Cacdac said.
OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan confirmed that government teams are in contact with OFWs who have requested assistance. Through its Migrant Workers Offices, OWWA is providing food, shelter, financial aid, and repatriation support.
The government is also preparing to repatriate 14 OFWs from Iran, and is actively coordinating with Philippine embassies in Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq for further assistance.
Each repatriated OFW will receive PHP150,000 in financial aid — PHP75,000 from the DMW’s Action Fund and PHP75,000 from OWWA’s Emergency Repatriation Fund — to help cover at least two months of lost income.
“This is about getting our people out of harm’s way. Whether they’re returning permanently or temporarily, we will assist, protect, and help them rebuild,” Cacdac said.
He also outlined the whole-of-government approach to support returning OFWs. This includes job matching by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), livelihood and training programs from DTI, DA, DSWD, and DOT, and medical assistance from the Department of Health (DOH).
Recruitment agencies with workers in the region are now on red alert and must submit updated contingency plans. Non-compliance may lead to sanctions.
Filipinos needing assistance can reach out through [email protected], the DMW-OWWA hotline 1348, or via official social media and messaging platforms.
Source PNA
