DSWD ready to assist DMW in returning OFWs’ needs amid Mideast tension

By Zaldy De Layola, Philippine News Agency

Smoke rises after an Israeli army launches a second wave of airstrikes on Iran Saturday (Feb. 28, 2026). (Anadolu)

MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has assured the public that it is ready to provide assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families in the Middle East amid the rising tension brought by the recent airstrikes.

In a statement on Monday, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the department is coordinating closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for updates on the details of the Filipino workers affected by the tension.

“Sa utos na rin ng ating Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., mahigpit po ang koordinasyon na ginagawa ng DSWD sa DMW at DFA kung sakaling magkaroon ng repatriation sa mga lugar na apektado ng airstrikes sa Gulf region (In line with the orders of President Marcos, the DSWD is closely coordinating with the DMW and the DFA for possible repatriations in areas affected by the airstrikes in the Gulf region),” Dumlao said.

She emphasized that the DSWD has available resources to assist the OFWs, and has various programs and services which can be availed by their families should they return home.

These include the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), a social safety net program for distressed and in crisis individuals, psychosocial interventions and livelihood assistance, among others.

Dumlao said the DSWD will continue reaching out to the DMW and other agencies to ensure holistic assistance to the OFWs.

“The DSWD, alongside other government agencies, will ensure a whole-of-nation approach to address the needs and concerns of distressed OFWs affected by the conflict,“ she said.