The Philippine government is intensifying its efforts to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran in the Middle East.

On Monday, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) welcomed 18 OFWs repatriated by the government at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 in Pasay City.

During a press briefing, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac mentioned that one OFW is in critical condition in an Israeli hospital's intensive care unit, while another is in a moderate but stable state after being injured during Iranian missile attacks.

Cacdac assured that welfare officers from both the DMW and OWWA are on the ground, providing support and relocation to safer areas when necessary.

As of now, 92 OFWs have registered for voluntary repatriation, with plans to coordinate the return with Israeli and Philippine authorities.

The repatriated OFWs, 15 from Israel and three from Jordan, were temporarily stranded in Dubai for 48 hours before being flown back home. Each OFW received financial assistance of PHP50,000 upon arrival to help during their disrupted employment.

OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan mentioned that the agency is assisting in transporting OFWs back to their home provinces and providing temporary shelter in Manila.

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega stated that Israel is currently under alert level 2, with the possibility of increasing based on the Philippine Embassy's recommendation.

With approximately 30,000 OFWs in Israel, the government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared for mandatory repatriation if needed.

Caunan advised OFWs to stay updated through official channels and follow local advisories to ensure their safety.

Returning OFWs were reminded to monitor the situation before their flights and stay connected with relevant government agencies for assistance.

Source: Philippine News Agency