President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday assured the public that the government is acting with urgency to ensure the safety and repatriation of Filipinos in Israel and Iran, following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
In a recorded message, Marcos said the government has raised Alert Level 3 in both countries, activating the voluntary repatriation program.
Marcos said Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac is in Amman, Jordan to receive the first batch of 26 repatriates from Israel at the King Hussein Crossing.
“We have already provided food packs and financial help to our kababayans. Many are staying in our Migrant Workers Office hostel, with more space ready should it be needed,” he added.
The government is processing over 200 repatriation requests, Marcos said, and is working quickly to facilitate their return.
While some Filipinos have opted to stay and continue working, the President also gave an update on the Filipino caregiver injured in earlier hostilities, who remains hospitalized.
“We continue to monitor our OFW (overseas Filipino workers) caregiver, who remains in hospital, stable but still on oxygen support and a ventilator. We are in touch with her family and are making sure she gets the care that she needs,” Marcos said.
In Iran, the Philippine Embassy is preparing to bring home an initial batch of eight Filipinos, he said.
Upon arrival in the Philippines, returning OFWs will receive comprehensive assistance, including PHP150,000 in financial aid, temporary accommodation, transportation, and livelihood support.
“For those who choose to stay home for good, we will be there to help with skills training, job matching, startup capital and support to begin a small business or find new opportunities,” the President said.
He urged Filipinos in affected areas to remain in close contact with Philippine embassies and consulates.
“I urge our fellow Filipinos to coordinate with our embassies in Tel Aviv and in Tehran. Please follow their guidance. Inform them of your situation, and do not hesitate to ask for assistance,” he added.
Marcos assured the public that the government remains on full alert to protect Filipino lives abroad.
“Your government continues to act and is ready to serve to protect your safety and well-being. Nothing is more important than the safety of every Filipino,” he said.
Marcos’ statement comes amid as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies after the United States launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, prompting strong retaliation threats from Tehran.
The US airstrikes came as the Israel-Iran conflict entered its second week of back-and-forth attacks. (PNA)
