MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) pledged ongoing support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Israel, including repatriation efforts, despite the Department of Foreign Affairs lowering the conflict alert level from 3 to 2, signaling a stabilizing security situation.
In a virtual press briefing Tuesday, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to assist OFWs who wish to return home, those opting to stay, and those preparing to resume work with their employers. “We know for sure na meron tayong at least 50 na na-i-shelter sa Israel,” Cacdac said, noting that two government-operated shelters in Israel currently house displaced workers, with two additional shelters on standby. He added that the ceasefire appears to be holding, reducing the likelihood of increased shelter occupancy.
DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay reported that four shelters, including the Migrant Workers Office in Tel Aviv and two rented flats, remain operational, accommodating at least 17 OFWs with capacity for up to 50. Nearly 300 workers have received food packs, hygiene kits, and financial aid equivalent to $200 for those who lost jobs due to displacement.
Bay emphasized ongoing monitoring of 431 OFWs to assess their needs and facilitate their return to work if employers are ready. She noted that 26 workers were repatriated on June 24, with another 31 scheduled to arrive in the Philippines between July 2 and 5. Additional repatriation trips are being arranged for those still opting to return.
However, Bay highlighted a shift in sentiment, with 195 OFWs who initially sought repatriation now reconsidering due to the ceasefire. The DMW has also received fresh inquiries from workers eager to return to their jobs in Israel.
Under Alert Level 2, OFWs can now return to their employers if conditions allow, Cacdac said. However, a deployment ban remains in place for new hires, including government-to-government deployed workers, as a precautionary measure. The previous Alert Level 3 had prompted voluntary repatriation.
The DMW’s efforts reflect a balance between ensuring the safety of Filipino workers and supporting their livelihoods as the situation in Israel stabilizes.
