MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued a critical advisory urging private recruitment agencies (PRAs) to temporarily suspend the deployment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to conflict-affected areas in the Middle East. The call comes amid escalating security concerns and travel restrictions in the region.
In Advisory No. 19, Series of 2025, released Thursday, the DMW reiterated its deployment restrictions to countries including Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran, emphasizing the need to prioritize the safety of OFWs. “Right now, we’re on Alert Level 2 in Israel, which means new hires are prohibited, but returning workers are allowed,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. He highlighted that airspace restrictions render it impossible for returning workers to travel, particularly to Jordan, where they risk being turned back.
Currently, Lebanon is under Alert Level 3, enforcing a comprehensive deployment ban for both new hires and returning OFWs. As of June 19, the DMW has helped 58 stranded OFWs, with 43 attempting to return from Israel and 15 from Jordan. The DMW’s Migrant Workers Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively facilitating the return of these workers in coordination with Philippine embassies.
Under the new advisory, PRAs are mandated to monitor the status and well-being of deployed OFWs rigorously. They are required to verify the safety of workers through partner employers and foreign placement agencies, and to maintain up-to-date contact information for these employers. Additionally, PRAs must provide welfare updates via the OFW Welfare Monitoring System to enhance oversight and facilitate emergency responses.
“PRAs must develop and maintain updated and actionable contingency plans,” the advisory stated, outlining the necessity for emergency contact numbers, evacuation protocols, and strategies for repatriation in light of deteriorating conditions.
In the event of flight cancellations or rerouting due to airspace restrictions, the DMW has directed PRAs to bear the costs and responsibilities for arranging alternative travel for affected OFWs, in line with existing contractual obligations.
The DMW is also encouraging open communication between PRAs and the Migrant Workers Office in Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, and other affected countries to ensure a coordinated response to emergencies. Affected OFWs have been advised to use designated hotlines for immediate assistance.
“Non-compliance with this directive shall be addressed according to the provisions of the 2023 DMW Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Landbased Overseas Filipino Workers,” the advisory concluded, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety protocols in these challenging times.
