As tensions rise between Israel and Iran, the Philippine government is ramping up efforts to bring home overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from affected areas.
Around 200 Filipinos in Israel have requested repatriation, according to authorities. A batch of about 30 individuals from Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and Qatar is scheduled to fly back to the Philippines on Tuesday, June 24. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac is accompanying them on the flight home.
The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier raised the crisis alert level to 3 in both Israel and Iran on June 20, signaling voluntary repatriation for Filipinos in those countries. While there are only an estimated 30 Filipinos in Iran, Israel is home to roughly 30,000 OFWs.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is also continuing to assist affected Filipinos, with a press briefing set for Tuesday afternoon to provide further updates on repatriation efforts.