The Philippine government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro underscored this during an online briefing on Monday, noting that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) remain steadfast in their duty to assist nationals in distress.
“Any Filipino who thinks it’s not safe wherever they are, it is the responsibility and the mandate of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and us at Foreign Affairs to repatriate this person and to help each and every OFW that is in need of assistance,” Lazaro said.
She emphasized that both agencies have been actively supporting Filipinos in the region even before the ceasefire between the United States and Iran took effect on April 8.
“As of today, we have already repatriated more than 5,000 of our OFWs. And, of course, there’s another government agency in charge while they’re here. So, it is continuous,” she added.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), following directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reported that it has extended aid to more than 2,500 OFWs impacted by the conflict.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that over 2,200 Filipinos remain on the waiting list for repatriation, with their return dependent on developments in the region.
He further noted that the Department of Budget and Management has authorized nearly ₱1 billion in funds, including ₱800 million allocated to the DMW, to ensure the safe return of Filipinos seeking to leave the Middle East.
To date, the government has successfully repatriated a total of 5,400 OFWs and their dependents.