Statement on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran

Migrante Middle East expresses deep concern regarding the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, which has placed hundreds of thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East at grave risk. The ongoing airstrikes, missile attacks, and heightened tensions have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, particularly for OFWs in Israel, Iran, and neighboring countries such as Lebanon and Jordan, where the situation remains volatile. The safety and well-being of our fellow Filipinos are now under direct threat as the conflict shows no signs of immediate de-escalation.

We urgently demand that the Philippine government step up its efforts to protect and repatriate OFWs affected by the ongoing war and retaliation. While the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has placed its Middle East offices on heightened alert and assured readiness for possible evacuation, Migrante Middle East insists that more concrete, swift, and proactive measures must be taken. DMW should ensure that OFWs are safe in designated shelters. The lives of our kababayans are at stake, and every moment of delay increases the danger they face.

Furthermore, we call on the Philippine government to expedite the rescue, processing of documents, and repatriation of Filipino workers. The current situation requires an immediate and coordinated response to ensure that OFWs are safely evacuated from conflict zones and that bureaucratic hurdles do not delay their return home. We also demand financial aid or livelihood programs for those who will be repatriated, as many will return without employment and face economic hardship due to the abrupt end of their overseas work.

Lastly, the Philippine government must scrap its labor export policy and instead focus on creating decent jobs and opportunities within the country. The ongoing crisis in the Middle East highlights the vulnerability of OFWs and the urgent need for systemic change. It is high time for the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens by ending the reliance on overseas employment and investing in local industries that can provide sustainable livelihoods for all Filipinos

#TrabahosaPinashindisaLabas #RepatriationIpatupad #ProteksyonsamgaOFWngaunNa.