Iloilo City: The Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) of the city and province of Iloilo have profiled 61 Ilonggos affected by the Israel-Iran conflict as of Wednesday. The total includes 37 from the seven municipalities in the province-15 from Zarraga, 10 from Maasin, three from Janiuay and Oton, and two from Leganes, Pototan, and San Joaquin-and 24 from this city.
According to Philippines News Agency, provincial PESO manager Cynthia Dario reported that 14 OFWs declared they were safe, 18 did not indicate their situation, and five said they were unsafe. Despite the circumstances, these Ilonggo OFWs have chosen to remain in Israel for the time being. Dario mentioned that the numbers are increasing as they continue to monitor and profile more individuals. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. is keen on knowing the count of Ilonggos affected in Israel and other countries involved in the conflict. As of now, no information or count has been received regarding affected Ilonggos from Iran.
Dario highlighted that their Operation Bulig Ilonggo hotlines are available 24/7, expressing gratitude to municipal PESO managers, barangay PESO coordinators, and OFW association presidents for their assistance with the profiling.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City PESO manager Gabriel Felix Umadhay stated that they have been monitoring the 24 OFWs from the city since the crisis in Tel Aviv last year. Since 2019, there has been no deployment to Israel from this city, and most of these workers are employed in healthcare, hotels, household help, and the food industry. Despite being located in various Israeli provinces, when asked about returning home, the OFWs expressed their reluctance to do so, believing they are safer in their current positions, particularly those working in hospitals.
Umadhay emphasized that their lines are open 24/7, and the city government is prepared to repatriate any OFWs who wish to return. Both PESO managers affirmed that the provincial and city governments are ready to provide financial and livelihood assistance for those deciding to come home.
Dario noted that the provincial government offers financial assistance of PHP10,000 and can refer returning OFWs to relevant government offices for livelihood assistance, reemployment, skills training, and psychological support. In Iloilo City, Umadhay stated that the local government can allocate funds for cash assistance ranging from PHP10,000 to PHP25,000 and support livelihood startups with amounts from PHP15,000 to PHP30,000.
