MALACAÑANG on Monday gave assurances that the government is prepared to assist the thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East amid rising tensions in the region.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed all relevant agencies to prioritize the protection and welfare of overseas Filipinos, especially those in high-risk areas.
“What the President wants to convey is that we are ready for whatever may happen. Everything our people need will be addressed by the government,” Castro said.
The Palace made the assurance following a surge of fears online over the potential outbreak of World War III, as the conflict between Israel and Iran worsens.
The situation escalated further over the weekend after the United States launched air strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
US President Donald Trump has warned of more attacks unless Iran chooses peace, while Tehran vowed to defend itself and accused Washington of military aggression.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reiterated its call for calm and diplomacy.
“The Philippines continues to reiterate the need for a peaceful and diplomatic solution to this crisis,” the DFA said in an earlier statement.
Castro echoed this message, saying the president supports efforts to avoid war and maintain peace across the region.
There are over 2.2 million Filipinos in the Middle East, with large populations in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
Around 30,000 Filipinos live in Israel, mainly working in caregiving and domestic services. In Iran, around 1,180 Filipinos reside, most of whom are married to locals.
The DFA has raised Alert Level 3 in Israel and Iran, encouraging voluntary repatriation and extra precaution.
Two senators on Monday aired their concern about the impact of the escalating conflict in the Middle East on the OFWs in the region.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros urged Malacañang to not be complacent amid worsening hostilities.
Hontiveros said that given the “potential deadly and destructive effects” of the conflict, the government should make the safety of OFWs “an urgent national priority.”
“The whole government must prepare measures to safeguard OFWs in the region. There is no room for complacency. Are there plans to rescue so many OFWs?” Hontiveros said in a statement.
“While it is important for the Pinoy community to remain calm. I hope we do not evacuate when it is already too late,” she said.
