MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has begun distributing financial assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, offering USD200 (around ₱12,000) to those experiencing job disruptions.
During a media briefing, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the aid targets OFWs facing employment shocks such as termination, reduced working hours, and salary cuts caused by regional instability.
The program is funded through an ₱800 million budget approved by Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and released by the Department of Budget and Management. The fund will cover on-site assistance, support for returning workers, and transportation expenses including airfare.
“So far, all systems are go for the continued distribution of the USD200 financial assistance for affected workers,” Cacdac said.
Thousands already assisted
As of the latest update, 4,502 OFWs in the Middle East have already received financial aid.
DMW Assistant Secretary Jun Rasul noted that many workers have been impacted by reduced income, limited work schedules, or job loss due to the crisis.
The assistance program covers OFWs in 10 Middle Eastern countries, including Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Easier application process
To speed up access to aid, the DMW simplified its application requirements. Applicants must submit:
- Request for assistance form
- Copy of passport
- Proof of overseas employment (contract, visa, or labor card)
- Proof of income disruption (e.g., termination notice, pay cuts)
However, to make the process more accessible, the agency now allows self-declaration (“sariling salaysay”), enabling workers to attest to their employment situation even without complete documentation.
Community certification from Filipino organizations abroad is also accepted as supporting proof.
Part of broader crisis response
The financial aid forms part of a wider government response that includes repatriation and reintegration programs.
As of Friday, 6,605 Filipinos have been repatriated from the region, including 5,023 OFWs and 1,343 dependents. Of these, 6,366 were government-funded.
Meanwhile, over 30,000 OFWs have received various forms of assistance such as food, shelter, transportation, medical services, and financial support.
The DMW emphasized its commitment to continue providing aid as the situation in the Middle East evolves, ensuring that affected Filipino workers receive timely support during the crisis.
