The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured assistance for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are unable to return to their jobs in the Middle East due to ongoing regional tensions.
The agency has yet to determine the exact number of affected OFWs.
“Gumagawa pa tayo ng talaan kung sino yung mga hindi makapanumbalik,” said DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac. He added that sectors such as hospitality, transport, restaurants, and construction are among those most affected. “Sila muna ang inaabisuhan natin, huwag muna magpatuloy kung wala naman dadatnan na mga trabaho sa abroad,” Cacdac said.
To aid those stranded or unable to leave, the government has launched the Bayanihan Para sa Balikbayang Manggagawa program, which provides financial assistance and support for livelihood or business opportunities.
“Sinabi naman natin na since Day 1 tinutulungan natin yung mga hindi maka-alis… Kaya tayo ay nagbibigay ng tulong para sa mga OFWs. Itong ating pondong pinansyal, tutulungan natin sila kung hindi muna sila makaalis,” Cacdac added.
