More Than 100 OFWs Request Return Amid Israel-Iran Air Strikes
As the air strikes between Israel and Iran continue, at least 109 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have expressed their desire to return home, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns for Filipinos in the affected regions, prompting government teams to provide urgent assistance.
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac shared in an interview that government representatives are actively supporting those impacted, including a critically injured Filipina currently hospitalized in Israel. “Well sa ngayon, nasa critical condition pa rin siya. Dinalaw siya ng team natin,” he said, highlighting that the woman remains in critical condition but is conscious, a hopeful sign of improvement.
The team assisting her operates under the embassy’s and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s (OWWA) guidance, with Administrator Patricia Yvonne “PY” Caunan’s group overseeing the efforts. “’Yung kulay niya noong isang araw medyo maputla, pero nag-improve,” Cacdac added, indicating the patient’s condition is stabilizing. Support has also been ensured as the woman’s sibling stays by her side in the hospital, and the DMW maintains close communication with her family in the Philippines.
Government Supports Affected Filipinos in Conflict Zones
Beyond hospitalized cases, the DMW has extended aid to 14 other Filipinos affected by the hostilities, some of whom are housed in temporary accommodations in the hardest-hit areas. “Meron pa rin tayong tinutulungan sa mga hard-hit areas kung saan meron tayong linalagay ngayon sa temporary accommodation,” Cacdac said, emphasizing ongoing relief efforts despite the volatile situation.
Although fresh attacks have occurred, there have been no new reports of Filipino injuries. “Sa awa ng Diyos, nagkaroon na naman ng attack kahapon. Pero sa awa ng Diyos, walang tayong napabalitaang nasaktan. ‘Yung apat, ‘yun pa rin ang bilang na alam natin,” Cacdac noted, confirming the number of injured Filipinos remains at four.
Repatriation Plans Face Challenges Amid Ongoing Hostilities
The number of Filipinos wishing to return home now totals 109, up from 85 who registered before the recent escalation of conflict. “Ngayon tumatayo sa 109 ‘yung nasa listahan natin and counting. Eighty-five doon sa 109, nagpalista na bago pa nag-atake noong Biyerne sa Iran,” Cacdac shared.
Despite the growing list, repatriation efforts face significant hurdles due to closed airspace and airport restrictions in the conflict zones. The DMW is coordinating closely with relevant agencies, but logistical challenges remain substantial.
When asked about the possibility of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Cacdac deferred to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of National Defense (DND) for official updates. “Sa puntong ito ay kailangan natin ng kaukulang payo mula sa DFA… We are also in touch with Sec. Gibo and the DND on this matter,” he said, stressing the need for expert guidance.
Safety Advisory for OFWs Amid Conflict
Secretary Cacdac also issued a strong reminder to OFWs currently in Israel and Iran to remain indoors and avoid spreading misinformation online. “Huwag masyadong lumabas sa bahay. Huwag rin masyadong makilahok sa mga malawakang discussion o lalo na ang pagpapalaganap ng fake news sa panahon na ito,” he urged, highlighting the importance of caution during these tense times.
For urgent assistance, the DMW has activated its 1348 hotline, accessible locally or from abroad at +632-1348.
For more news and updates on overseas Filipino workers, visit Filipinokami.com.