AFP and DND on Standby: Military Ready to Evacuate OFWs From Middle East If Things Get Worse
With the Middle East spiraling into chaos following the US-Israel strikes on Iran, the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have put themselves on full readiness to evacuate Filipino workers if the situation deteriorates further. DND spokesperson Asst. Sec. Arsenio Andolong confirmed the military is prepared for humanitarian missions, evacuations, and repatriation support.
The reassurance comes as thousands of OFWs across the Gulf region — household workers, caregivers, engineers, and health professionals — face growing uncertainty. In Israel, Filipinos are largely deployed as caregivers under a government-to-government program, with communities based in Tel Aviv and other cities that have come under rocket alerts before.
Despite the gravity of the situation, both the DND and AFP stressed that there is 'no credible direct threat' to the Philippines itself. 'The conflict is contained within the Middle East,' Andolong said, urging the public to stay calm and rely only on verified government sources rather than spreading panic through disinformation.
The AFP's public affairs chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, echoed the message: 'The AFP remains committed to its supporting role in whole-of-government efforts, ensuring readiness to assist whenever called upon to help safeguard Filipino lives and uphold national security.'
OFWs and their families who need assistance can reach the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration at 138 (Metro Manila), (02) 1348 (regional), or (+632) 1348 (international). Viber hotlines are also available through Globe and Smart numbers. The government's 24/7 Middle East hotline is +972 54 466 1188.
Source: Manila Bulletin
