Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced that the government has provided assistance to over 16,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) impacted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with repatriation efforts continuing robustly. In his address at Malaca±an Palace, Marcos emphasized the government's commitment to the safety of OFWs, revealing that more than 2,000 have already been repatriated.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President stated that the Philippines is actively coordinating with host countries in the Middle East to ensure the protection and safety of Filipino workers amidst escalating tensions in the Gulf region. Despite relief efforts, he expressed sorrow over a Filipino caregiver in Israel who was among the early casualties after a bombing incident.
Marcos urged OFWs to refrain from independently leaving conflict areas and to instead coordinate with authorities for safe evacuation. He highlighted that systems have been established to facilitate the orderly repatriation of Filipinos wishing to return home, with over 2,000 OFWs having already been repatriated.
The assistance provided to affected OFWs includes food, shelter, medical care, transportation, and financial aid, benefitting both those repatriated and those still abroad. The government has organized four chartered flights so far to bring OFWs home, with more flights planned. Marcos explained that repatriation involves gathering OFWs at a central location before transporting them to the Philippines.
Authorities are ensuring all movements are coordinated to prevent risks, particularly in conflict zones, and Marcos warned against unauthorized travel, which could lead to dangerous encounters. He pointed out the challenges in chartering planes and organizing land transfers, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts.
The government aims to increase the frequency of chartered flights from once a week to twice weekly, subject to clearance from local authorities. Some OFWs have also been able to return via commercial flights.
