Israel-Iran conflict puts 2 million OFWs at ‘serious risk’ – PCID

The Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID) has urged the government to call for an “immediate cessation” of the heightened tension between Israel and Iran, emphasizing that the country faces the direct impact of hostilities. REUTERS/Amir Cohen TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID) has urged the government to call for an “immediate cessation” of the conflict between Israel and Iran, emphasizing that the country faces the direct impact of hostilities.

The PCID made the statement on Sunday as it expressed concern about the recent coordinated bombing of the United States and Israel on Iran, asserting that war and violence will not resolve the conflict.

The PCID noted that the Philippines, which is home to a Muslim population and sends a big workforce to the Middle East, is also affected by the escalating conflict.

“Any military escalation in the Gulf region places over two million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)— many of whom are in Iran’s neighboring states— at serious risk. These Filipinos play critical roles in the economies of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and their safety and livelihood must now be prioritized,” the PCID said.

READ: Over 200 Filipinos in Israel, Iran seeking repatriation

The PCID also said that the government must prioritize safe repatriation and protection of OFWs in the Middle East. The first batch of 31 repatriated Filipinos — 26 from Israel, three from Jordan, one each from Palestine and Qatar — arrived in Manila on Tuesday.

Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac said last Sunday that the Filipinos who were repatriated would receive P150,000 worth of financial assistance upon their arrival. He added that the Department of Social Welfare and Development will also give cash assistance while the Department of Health will provide medical services, particularly psychosocial support.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday said that he directed all concerned government agencies to ensure the “safe, timely, and orderly return” of OFWs who will avail the voluntary repatriation program.

READ: Marcos says efforts underway to ensure OFWs’ safety in Iran, Israel

Aside from this, the PCID pointed out that the conflict puts a “disproportionate burden” on women, noting that “bombing risks exacerbating existing gender inequalities, increasing the incidence of displacement, gender-based violence, and economic disenfranchisement.”

It also cited Filipino migrant workers who work in the Middle East as an example, where many of them may face fear, abuse, or forced repatriation if they lack legal protection.

“This is a moment that demands moral clarity and a steadfast commitment to peace, justice, and the dignity of the people,” the PCID said. /coa