The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Monday assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that exit points and repatriation mechanisms are already in place as the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the government is fully prepared to respond should the security situation worsen, even as authorities see no immediate need for mass repatriation.
“Nakahanda po tayo, ang ating exit points and repatriation,” Cacdac said during a Palace press briefing.
He advised OFWs in affected areas to remain indoors and stay alert, emphasizing that preparedness remains a priority.
Cacdac disclosed that specific exit points have been identified for workers who have already expressed their intention to return home, with arrangements being coordinated alongside the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and host governments.
“Mayroong mga identified exit points doon sa mga nag-manifest na nais na nilang umuwi. We are working out along with the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and the host countries ‘yung manner in which we will start moving people through these exit points,” he said.
The DMW is also coordinating with the Department of National Defense regarding the possible deployment of military assets, while tapping private sector partners for land, sea, and air transport options.
“Nakaabang at nakahanda na po lahat ‘yan,” Cacdac said.
Meanwhile, the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) are assessing the safest ways to deploy augmentation teams to assist OFWs on the ground, ensuring compliance with host country protocols.
“Kung sarado sa ngayon ang UAE, we will make sure to be there. Our augmentation teams in the areas surrounding kung saan puwedeng sumalubong at pumasok at the right time. Again, timing is everything at this stage kaya’t hindi po tayo muna manghihimasok sa protocols ng host countries,” he said.
The government is likewise extending immediate assistance, including food and water, to distressed workers. Funds under AKSYON (Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan) and OWWA remain on standby for OFWs who have lost employment or are facing hardship due to the conflict.
On-site transportation is also available for workers seeking relocation to safer areas, while temporary shelters provided by Philippine posts and host governments remain accessible. Cacdac cited ongoing assistance in Dubai as an example.
“Halimbawa sa Dubai, mayroon tayong higit-kumulang 20 ngayon na nasa shelter natin and also identified certain areas outside of our MWO (Migrant Workers Office) kung saan mayroong mga designated accommodation facilities din tayo,” he added.