The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued updated travel and safety alerts for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Middle East, following a statement relayed by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) during a Palace press briefing today.
According to the DFA, the following alert levels are now in effect: the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel are at Alert Level 2, indicating heightened caution due to potential risks. The UAE’s alert level has been raised from Level 1 to Level 2, reflecting recent security and regional developments. Oman remains at no alert level, while Jordan is at Alert Level 1, considered generally safe. Lebanon has been placed under Alert Level 3, signaling a significant threat to safety, and Iraq and Syria remain under Alert Level 4, the highest crisis level, which triggers mandatory evacuation for Filipinos.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation in Iran, which may fall under Alert Level 3 or 4, although the official classification is still pending.
The DFA clarified that Alert Level 2 automatically triggers a deployment ban for newly hired OFWs in the affected countries. This measure aims to prevent Filipinos from being sent into regions where their safety cannot be guaranteed. Existing workers are advised to stay alert, follow local advisories, and register with the Philippine embassies or consulates in their respective countries to receive timely updates.
“This step is part of our continued effort to protect our nationals abroad,” said Secretary Cacdac. “We urge all Filipinos in the region to remain vigilant and to coordinate closely with the Philippine diplomatic posts if they encounter any security issues.”
OWWA is also mobilizing support for Filipinos currently in countries with elevated alert levels, guiding safety measures, emergency contacts, and evacuation procedures where applicable. Families of OFWs are encouraged to maintain communication and seek updates through official government channels.
The government continues to monitor the evolving situation in the Middle East closely, taking proactive steps to safeguard its citizens while balancing the needs of Filipino workers abroad. Travelers and workers are advised to check the DFA and OWWA websites regularly for the latest announcements regarding travel restrictions, safety alerts, and assistance programs.
By reinforcing these measures, the Philippines aims to ensure that its overseas workforce remains informed, protected, and prepared amid regional uncertainties.