The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa) 7 has confirmed that there are currently no reported injuries or deaths among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Central Visayas, despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East. This update was provided on Monday, March 2, 2026, as authorities intensify efforts to ensure the safety of thousands of local workers and their families back home.
Monitoring and Contingency Plans for OFWs
Owwa 7 reports that a total of 33,903 registered OFWs from Region 7 are currently in the affected areas, with Saudi Arabia hosting the largest number, followed by the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait. The agency is collaborating closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) 7 to monitor everyone's safety and has initiated regional contingency protocols, which are specialized emergency plans designed to protect the welfare of these workers during crises.
Travel Alerts and Safety Levels Issued
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has implemented varying alert levels based on the danger in each country to guide OFWs and their families:
- Alert Level 4 (Mandatory Repatriation): Iraq, Syria, and Iran.
- Alert Level 3 (Voluntary Repatriation): Lebanon.
- Alert Level 2 (Travel Restrictions): Israel, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
- Alert Level 1 & Normal: Jordan and Oman.
Support Services at Mactan-Cebu International Airport
A dedicated team from Owwa and the DMW is now on standby at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, ready to assist OFWs who are returning home or fleeing the conflict. This team provides essential services such as food, temporary accommodation, and transportation to the workers' home provinces. Owwa 7 advises OFWs planning to travel to check their flight status with their airline before heading to the airport to avoid disruptions.
Cebu City Launches Help Desk for Families
To support families concerned about their loved ones or the rising cost of living, the Cebu City Government opened a dedicated help desk at City Hall on Monday. Mayor Nestor Archival explained that the desk will help residents address the fallout of the war, including worries about OFW safety and increasing prices for fuel and basic goods. He stated, They can reach out to City Hall. We will put up a desk and contact number; whatever their concern is, they can go there.
Preparing for Economic Impacts
Mayor Archival warned that the conflict between Iran and the forces of the US and Israel is already affecting global oil markets, potentially leading to higher costs for gas, food, and transportation in Cebu. As the City spends approximately P300 million on fuel and maintenance, he has directed the Department of General Services to secure a stable fuel supply for the next two months. This measure ensures that the city can continue to deliver water and provide essential services even if prices surge or supplies become scarce.
How to Access Assistance
If you have family members working in the Middle East, Owwa 7 encourages you to contact their hotlines immediately to report any concerns or request assistance. The new Cebu City Hall help desk is also operational, connecting residents with the appropriate national agencies for further support.
