Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, emphasized the government's proactive response to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, underscoring the substantial repatriation efforts and continuous support extended to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the conflict.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President detailed the successful repatriation of over 12,000 OFWs and the provision of emergency assistance to more than 140,000 others. He highlighted the initiatives led by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) aimed at helping displaced workers rebuild their livelihoods, reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting OFWs impacted by the turmoil.
The President stressed that aiding Filipinos caught in the Middle East conflict is a top priority for the government. He elaborated on the critical mission of rescuing OFWs trapped in the war, noting the significant number of Filipinos working in the region.
Marcos shared that since the outbreak of the conflict, a substantial number of Filipinos have been safely repatriated, and many more have received various forms of assistance, including food, financial aid, medical treatment, and shelter.
For those returning, especially the repatriated workers, the government has prioritized reintegration support. Livelihood assistance has been provided through the DMW's AKSYON Fund and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-Kabuhayan Program. Additionally, some OFWs have been referred to employment services, participated in job fairs, or were assisted in securing overseas employment once again.
In his address, the President also announced plans to deploy returning Filipino teachers to public schools. Furthermore, he reaffirmed ongoing international coordination to ensure the safety of Filipinos abroad and expressed concern over the loss and disappearance of some workers due to the conflict.
Marcos mentioned that the Philippines has sought Iran's assistance in safeguarding thousands of Filipino seafarers passing through the Strait of Hormuz during heightened tensions in the region.
The President concluded by assuring continued government support for OFWs as the effects of the Middle East conflict endure.
