Our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are often called our “modern-day heroes,” but when global conflicts arise, they are among the most vulnerable. In response to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has stepped up to provide a vital safety net for our returning and stranded kababayans.
As of April 2026, the DSWD has officially extended assistance to over 2,500 OFWs affected by the crisis. This support goes beyond just paperwork—it’s about providing holistic care during an incredibly stressful time.
Who is Being Assisted?
The DSWD’s efforts have successfully reached two primary groups:
- Repatriated Workers: Over 2,110 individuals who have returned to the Philippines from countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Iraq, and Kuwait.
- Stranded Workers: Approximately 409 OFWs who were caught in travel restrictions across the Gulf Region and European transit points.
A Holistic Approach to Recovery
Recognizing that coming home from a conflict zone is both a financial and emotional challenge, the DSWD is offering more than just one-time aid:
- Emotional Support (Psychosocial First Aid): Social workers are stationed to meet arriving OFWs, providing immediate counseling and mental health support to help process their journey.
- Financial & Medical Aid: To date, over Php 1 million in financial assistance has been distributed to repatriated workers, alongside specific medical grants for those in need.
- Livelihood Opportunities: Under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), several OFWs have already received seed capital of Php 20,000 each to help them start small businesses and find new ways to earn here at home.
A “Whole-of-Government” Response
This initiative is part of a larger, coordinated effort. Following the directives of the Marcos Administration, the DSWD is working closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), OWWA, DFA, and DOH to ensure no OFW is left behind.
Through the UPLIFT Framework (Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport), the government aims to provide a seamless transition for workers displaced by regional instability.
How to Seek Help
If you are an OFW—or if you know someone—who has been affected by the Middle East crisis, help is available. Assistance begins as soon as you arrive or as soon as a request is made through the DSWD Field Offices or the nearest Philippine Embassy.
Source: DSWD Official Website – DSWD extends assistance to over 2,500 OFWs affected by Middle East crisis
