Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed displeasure over the rude behavior of a staff member of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Bahrain toward overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Malaca±ang said Monday (Manila time).

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that Marcos has directed Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac to investigate and take action on the incident. The President is particularly concerned about the situation involving MWO Bahrain employee Anthony Allermo after a viral video of the encounter emerged on social media.

The President's dissatisfaction stems from the alleged mistreatment of OFWs by Allermo, who, in the video, can be heard telling OFWs seeking cash assistance to leave, claiming the distribution had already ended with no more funds available. This incident has sparked outrage, especially since some OFWs traveled long distances to access the aid and expressed frustration over the lack of prior notification about the conclusion of fund distribution.

Claire Castro emphasized that President Marcos is committed to supporting OFWs and expects public servants to treat fellow Filipinos with respect and compassion. She added that those who fail to demonstrate these qualities have no place in the current administration. In response to the incident, Cacdac has ordered the recall of Allermo from his position at the MWO in Bahrain.