Twenty one distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Israel have safely returned to the Philippines amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.
According to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the repatriated Filipinos arrived on board Gulf Air Flight GF 154, which landed at Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on.
The repatriation was carried out under the government’s program in coordination with OWWA, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Philippine Embassy in Israel.
Upon arrival, the OFWs were welcomed by representatives from DMW and OWWA and were immediately provided with assistance, including financial aid, medical checkups, transportation, and temporary accommodation while arrangements are made for their return to their respective provinces.
The repatriation comes as Israel faces heightened tensions following renewed hostilities with militant groups and persistent security threats across its borders.
In recent months, violent clashes, rocket attacks, and military operations have disrupted civilian life, particularly in areas near Gaza and other conflict-prone regions. These developments have raised concerns for the safety of migrant workers, including thousands of Filipinos employed in caregiving, domestic work, and other sectors.
The Philippine government assured that it continues to work closely with concerned agencies and international partners to safeguard the welfare and security of Filipino workers in conflict-affected areas abroad.
