Eight overseas Filipino workers evacuated from the Middle East due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran have received substantial financial support to help them rebuild their lives, government officials said Tuesday.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in Ilocos Region has disbursed 525,000 Philippine pesos (approximately $9,300) in emergency assistance to the workers, providing a lifeline for those unexpectedly forced to return home.
DMW Regional Director Christian Rey Sison emphasized that the aid is designed to offer more than immediate relief. “This funding provides these workers an opportunity to restart—whether through launching a small business, covering medical expenses, or investing in skills training,” Sison told reporters.
The workers, who were repatriated on June 24 despite initial flight disruptions caused by Qatar’s temporary airspace closure, received comprehensive support. Their return was personally overseen by DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Undersecretary Venecio Legaspi.
Romeo Jaramilla, the region’s assistant director, explained that the assistance comes from the agency’s Aksyon Fund, which provides holistic support including legal representation, repatriation, and crisis management services.
“Our primary goal is ensuring these workers can quickly stabilize their circumstances,” Jaramilla said.
Beyond the DMW’s aid, the workers are set to receive additional support from multiple government agencies, including skills development vouchers from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, medical assistance from the Department of Health, and potential social welfare support.
Secretary Cacdac has pledged continued government commitment to helping these workers find new employment opportunities or develop sustainable livelihoods.
The repatriation and subsequent support highlight the Philippine government’s ongoing efforts to protect its estimated 1.8 million overseas workers, particularly in regions experiencing geopolitical instability.
