Kingston: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured aid for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Jamaica and nearby Caribbean islands following the devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa.

According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac expressed deep concern and solidarity with Filipinos facing the impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm ever recorded in Jamaica’s history. Cacdac emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the well-being of every Filipino in the affected regions.

The DMW is coordinating closely with the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, through its Migrant Workers Office – Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (MWO-OWWA), the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Jamaica, led by Honorary Consul Keith Russell, and Filipino community leaders on the ground. Cacdac urged OFWs to follow safety directives, secure essential documents, and stay informed through trusted sources.

Local media reported that Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 and downgraded to a Category 2 as it passed over Cuba. The US National Hurricane Center confirmed that the storm has since weakened to a Category 1, leaving widespread destruction. In Haiti, 25 deaths were confirmed, including 10 children, and four fatalities occurred in Jamaica, with many communities experiencing flooding and power outages.

Cacdac assured that the DMW is actively monitoring the situation to ensure assistance reaches those in need. For emergency or consular assistance, Filipinos are advised to contact the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, MWO-OWWA Washington, DC, or the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Jamaica.

Cacdac urged Filipinos to remain calm, vigilant, and connected with their community networks, reiterating the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being.