Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured the public on Monday that the Philippine government has established comprehensive exit points and repatriation protocols to protect Filipinos affected by the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking at a Palace briefing, Secretary Cacdac emphasized that while mass repatriation is not currently required, the DMW—in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and host countries—is fully prepared to mobilize should the security situation deteriorate.
The DMW has identified specific exit routes for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have expressed a desire to return to the Philippines. To ensure the safety of these citizens, the Department is exploring all logistics options:
-
Military & Private Assets: Coordination is underway with the Department of National Defense (DND) for the potential use of military assets.
-
Commercial Partnerships: The government is securing land, sea, and air options through private sector partners to ensure diverse evacuation routes.
-
Augmentation Teams: Despite temporary airport closures in the UAE, DMW and OWWA “augmentation teams” are positioned in surrounding areas, ready to enter and assist as soon as host country protocols allow. “Timing is everything at this stage. We are identifying the safest ways to deploy our teams while ensuring full compliance with the host countries’ protocols,” Secretary Cacdac stated.
For OFWs remaining in the region, the government is providing a “safety net” of essential services:
-
Basic Necessities: Distribution of food, water, and medical supplies to affected Filipinos.
-
Emergency Shelters: Dedicated accommodation facilities are active. In Dubai alone, approximately 20 Filipinos are currently being housed in government-arranged shelters.
-
On-Site Transport: Services are available for workers wishing to relocate from high-risk zones to safer areas.
-
Financial Aid: The AKSYON Fund (Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan) and OWWA funds are on standby to assist those who have lost employment or are in distress.
The DMW advises all Filipinos in the affected regions to stay indoors, monitor local news, and remain vigilant. The Department continues to monitor the situation 24/7 to ensure the protection of every Filipino worker.
For OFWs requiring immediate assistance, please contact the nearest Migrant Workers Office (MWO) or the DMW emergency hotlines.
