Gov restricts new OFW deployments to conflict zones in Middle East

The Philippine government has restricted deployment of newly hired overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to conflict-affected areas in the Middle East due to rising tensions.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced that private recruitment agencies (PRAs) are strongly encouraged to delay processing new hires for deployment until further notice, with penalties for non-compliance.

Alert levels designated by the DFA indicate different restrictions: Lebanon is under Alert Level 3, prohibiting both new hires and returning workers; Israel remains at Alert Level 2 but has halted deployments due to airspace closures affecting these countries.

As of June 19, DMW has assisted 58 stranded OFWs, including those bound for Israel and Jordan, with Migrant Workers Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi facilitating their return in coordination with Philippine embassies.

PRAs are mandated to maintain active communication with employers, conduct regular welfare checks, develop contingency plans, and shoulder costs for rerouting or rebooking flights affected by airspace closures.

DMW met with Jordanian employers who expressed willingness to wait and assist the stranded OFWs, while PRAs are required to submit welfare updates via the OFW Welfare Monitoring System for stricter monitoring.