The Department of Migrant Workers has recently announced a deployment ban on new hires for Iran and Jordan due to the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

During a press conference, DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac stated that while returning Overseas Filipino Workers are technically allowed, they are unable to travel as airspace remains closed.

The DMW issued Advisory No. 19 s. 2025, emphasizing the restrictions on the deployment of OFWs to Israel, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon.

Cacdac advised OFWs bound for Jordan to delay their trips, as the kingdom shares a border with Israel.

He also warned recruitment agencies not to send new hires to Jordan, as they will be turned back.

Following the October 7 Hamas attacks in 2023, there has been an existing deployment ban in Israel.

Cacdac emphasized that recruitment agencies failing to comply with the ban will face consequences, including covering the costs of travel.

Currently, there are 58 Filipinos stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, either bound for Israel or Jordan.

The DMW has arranged a flight for four Israel-bound Filipinos to return to the Philippines via an Etihad flight in Abu Dhabi.

While DMW does not determine alert levels for mandatory or voluntary repatriation, Cacdac mentioned that the agency is committed to assisting Filipinos in need, regardless of the circumstances.

He emphasized that decisions regarding repatriation are made by the Department of Foreign Affairs officials and that DMW defers to their judgment.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following Israel's preemptive strike against Iran in an attempt to halt Tehran's nuclear program.