Negros occidental: The Negros Occidental provincial government and the Bacolod City government have initiated communication channels for Negrenses employed in the conflict-stricken Middle East, as well as for their families who require assistance concerning their status.
According to Philippines News Agency, the move comes after a significant military operation was launched by the United States and Israel against Iran over the weekend. In retaliation, Iran targeted Israel with drones and missiles, attacked US military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and caused damage to several establishments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including two major airports.
At the provincial capitol, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) activated an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) help desk and hotline on Monday to provide support to residents whose families, friends, and loved ones are working in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Israel, and Jordan. Negros Occidental PESO head Karen Dinsay mentioned that while they have not yet received requests from affected OFWs, preparations are underway to assist a Negrense whose flight to Riyadh via Hong Kong was canceled. The province is ready to assist in her return flight from Manila back to Negros Occidental.
Dinsay also stated that they are working in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to provide support to Negrenses in need of assistance. Individuals seeking help can visit the OFW Help Desk at the provincial capitol or contact them via 0998-9569037 or 0924-1097705.
In Bacolod City, the OFW help desk located at the Government Center main lobby has already received nine inquiries from family members of OFWs in Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia by 1 p.m. on Monday, comprising four walk-ins and five hotline calls at 0930-8775097. Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized his personal involvement in monitoring and coordinating with the DMW for Bacolodnon OFWs who may require assistance. He assured that the hotline and help desk are available to address concerns, enabling the city to assist relatives working in the Middle East.
Furthermore, across Negros Occidental, PESO units in various cities, including Bago and San Carlos, have established similar help desks to cater to the needs of the community.
