In response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa) 7, in close coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) 7, has swiftly activated regional contingency protocols to ensure the safety and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) based in Central Visayas. This proactive move comes amid heightened tensions following recent attacks in Tehran, Iran, as depicted in a photo from February 28, 2026, near the University of Tehran.
Zero Casualties Reported Among Region 7 OFWs
In a press release issued on Monday, March 2, 2026, Owwa 7 confirmed that there have been zero casualties among OFWs from Region 7. The agency emphasized that it has not received any requests for assistance involving injuries or deaths related to the conflict. To maintain real-time monitoring, Owwa 7 is in constant communication with Migrant Workers Offices (MWO-Owwa) across the Middle East, ensuring up-to-date information on the situation.
Airport Standby Team Ready for Repatriation
A joint team from Owwa 7 and DMW 7 is currently on standby at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) to assist returning or repatriated OFWs, including those affected by flight disruptions. The assistance provided includes:
- Airport reception and profiling to streamline the arrival process
- Emergency accommodation and food assistance for immediate needs
- Transportation to home provinces to ensure safe return
OFWs are strongly advised to verify their flight status and coordinate directly with their airlines before proceeding to the airport to avoid any unnecessary complications.
DFA Alert Levels for Affected Countries
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued specific alert levels for various countries in the Middle East, guiding OFWs and their families on necessary actions:
- Alert Level 4 (Mandatory Repatriation): Iraq, Syria, Iran
- Alert Level 3 (Voluntary Repatriation): Lebanon
- Alert Level 2 (Restriction on non-essential travel and new deployment): Israel, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain
- Alert Level 1 (Precautionary): Jordan
- Normal (Heightened Vigilance): Oman
Region 7 OFWs in Affected Areas
Owwa 7 reported a total of 33,903 registered OFWs from Region 7 currently in affected countries. The breakdown by country is as follows:
- Saudi Arabia — 14,262
- United Arab Emirates — 7,595
- Kuwait — 4,960
- Qatar — 4,886
- Bahrain — 799
- Oman — 584
- Jordan — 296
- Lebanon — 255
- Israel — 128
- Egypt — 65
- Iraq — 21
- Afghanistan — 15
- Pakistan — 12
- Yemen (Republic of) — 10
- Iran — 6
- Syria — 3
- Yemen North — 3
- Yemen South — 3
Support for Families in Central Visayas
Families in Central Visayas with relatives working abroad are encouraged to contact Owwa 7 hotlines for any assistance or concerns regarding their loved ones. The agencies are committed to providing timely support and ensuring the well-being of OFWs during this period of uncertainty.
