The Philippine government has evacuated 18 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from the volatile Middle East region, with two workers suffering injuries from recent Iranian missile attacks in Israel, government officials announced Monday.
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac revealed that one OFW is in critical condition in an Israeli intensive care unit, while another has sustained moderate injuries near Tel Aviv.
“These workers were caught in dangerous blast zones, despite the presence of bomb shelters,” Cacdac told reporters at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The repatriation efforts come amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with 92 OFWs registering for voluntary evacuation. Fifteen workers from Israel and three from Jordan were among those returned, having been stranded for 48 hours in Dubai before reaching Manila.
Each repatriated worker received 50,000 Philippine pesos (approximately $900) in financial assistance to help mitigate income disruption. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting displaced workers.
With approximately 30,000 Filipinos currently in Israel, authorities are carefully monitoring the situation. The Department of Foreign Affairs maintains an alert level 2 status, with potential for escalation based on embassy recommendations.
“We are coordinating closely with Israeli and Philippine authorities to ensure the safety of our overseas workers,” Cacdac stated.
Caunan urged OFWs to stay informed through official channels, including DMW, OWWA, and embassy social media platforms. A 1348 hotline is available for families seeking information.
As Ben Gurion International Airport remains closed, officials are tentatively planning for reopening and continued repatriation efforts.
The government continues to assess the evolving situation, prioritizing the safety and welfare of Filipino workers in the region.
