MANILA (June 17) — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), through its Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and in coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv, has provided immediate assistance to 14 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by an Iranian missile strike that hit a residential building in Rehovot, about 20 kilometers south of Tel Aviv, Israel.
Acting on the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the DMW swiftly responded to ensure the safety and well-being of OFWs amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
“Thankfully, there were no fatalities, but four were hospitalized. All 14 OFWs received basic necessities and financial assistance,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac. “This is part of our ongoing mission to support our Kababayans, as instructed by the President.”
The DMW and OWWA are closely monitoring the condition of the critically injured OFW, as well as others who sustained injuries from the blast.
Of the 14 OFWs, eight have been moved to a temporary shelter, five remain with their employers, and one opted to stay with a friend for security.
The DMW-MWO, in partnership with the Philippine Embassy, continues to provide food, shelter, and medical care. The agency remains on high alert, ready to implement rescue, evacuation, and repatriation efforts if needed.
“We assure our OFWs and their families that we are fully committed to helping those affected by any conflict, especially the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions. We are also closely monitoring the situation in Lebanon in coordination with our MWOs and embassies,” Secretary Cacdac added.
