DMW Chief Cacdac: 'Walang Pilipino Na Nasaktan' — But Evacuation Plans Are Ready Just in Case
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac on Sunday assured the public that all Filipinos in the Middle East remain safe despite the escalating conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel. In a radio interview, he confirmed the agency has been in constant contact with Philippine embassies across the region.
'Nakipagpulong na tayo sa ating respective embassies, ambassadors, at labor attachés on the ground. Sa kabuuang ulat, walang Pilipino na nasaktan or malubhang apektado nitong mga pag-atake,' Cacdac said. That's a relief, considering the scale of Iran's retaliatory strikes that hit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and other Gulf cities.
Cacdac assured that contingency plans are already in place, including the provision of basic needs to affected Filipinos and possible repatriation if the conflict worsens. He said all OFWs who have reached out for help have been attended to, including those affected by flight cancellations.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration urged OFWs in the region to follow advisories from both Philippine embassies and local authorities, identify the nearest shelter, stay alert for emergency notifications, and avoid potentially dangerous areas.
Iran's retaliatory strikes came after US President Trump announced that Supreme Leader Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. Trump called it 'the single greatest chance for Iran's freedom.' Abu Dhabi's airport sustained damage with at least one person killed and seven wounded, while Dubai's famous Burj Al Arab hotel was also reportedly hit.
Source: Sunstar
