President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. has directed telecommunications companies to provide free services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

“In a social media post on Monday, President Marcos said that telecommunications firms have activated the 'Libreng Tawag program,' which will provide vital support, connecting Filipinos in the Middle East with their families in the Philippines.

Marcos announced that the initiative covers OFWs in Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.

President Marcos instructed local telcos to provide free communication services to OFWs and their families, emphasizing the program’s role in ensuring the safety and well-being of Filipinos abroad.

Earlier, Globe Telecom, PLDT Inc., and Smart Communications announced that they are providing free communication services to help Filipinos in the Middle East stay in touch with their families in the Philippines, particularly to assist those affected by ongoing tensions in the region.

Moreover, Marcos said the telecommunications firms are setting up free call stations in select business centers within major malls, enabling families in the Philippines to reach their loved ones overseas without incurring extra costs.

“Through these efforts, we want to ensure that our kababayans can remain connected with their families, offer comfort to one another, and confirm their safety without additional financial burden,” the president said.