The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has urged private recruitment agencies (PRAs) to delay sending Filipino workers to conflict-affected areas in the Middle East to prioritize their safety.

DMW emphasized the restrictions on OFW deployment in Israel, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon in its advisory.

According to DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, new hires are currently prohibited in Israel due to Alert Level 2 status, but returning workers are allowed. However, airspace restrictions make it challenging for workers to travel to Jordan, as they may be turned back if airspace closures occur.

The advisory issued by DMW requires PRAs to:

• Maintain active communication with employers and foreign partners to ensure the safety of deployed workers
• Conduct regular welfare checks and provide updated reports through the OFW Welfare Monitoring System
• Develop contingency plans for evacuation and emergency repatriation
• Cover costs of rerouting or rebooking flights for affected OFWs due to airspace closures
• Avoid processing deployments to Jordan and Israel until clearance is given

Cacdac emphasized that agencies must comply with the directive, and those who fail to do so will face penalties. Additionally, agencies will be held accountable for travel costs if the government covers the expenses.

DMW reported that as of June 19, they have assisted 58 stranded OFWs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with 43 bound for Israel and 15 for Jordan. The department also engaged with PRAs in Jordan to discuss the current deployment limitations.

According to DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia, Jordanian employers are prepared to assist and support stranded OFWs. Meanwhile, tensions between Iran and Israel escalated with missile strikes and airstrikes, prompting the Philippine government to consider raising alert levels in the affected areas.

Recently, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed the safe passage of 21 Philippine government officials from Israel to Jordan. The situation remains volatile, and the safety of OFWs remains a top priority for the government.