The House of Representatives’ Committee on Foreign Affairs and Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs convened a joint hearing to assess the impact of the escalating conflict in the Middle East on Filipinos in the region and to oversee the Philippine Government’s crisis response efforts.
The hearing was led by Committee on Foreign Affairs Chairperson Representative Maria Rachel Arenas and Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chairperson Representative Bryan Revilla, with key executive agencies providing updates on the situation on the ground and the measures being undertaken to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipinos.
“Approximately 2.4 million Filipinos are currently residing and working across the Middle East.”
Officials reported that approximately 2.4 million Filipinos are currently residing and working across the Middle East, underscoring the urgency of coordinated government action to protect Filipino nationals in affected areas.
During the briefing, representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Migrant Workers, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Department of National Defense presented updates on the evolving security situation and the government’s contingency plans.
The committees commended the dedication of Philippine diplomats, labor officials, and frontline personnel who continue to monitor developments and provide assistance to Filipinos on the ground despite the volatile conditions.
Arenas emphasized that the hearing forms part of Congress’ oversight role to ensure that government response mechanisms remain effective and responsive to the needs of overseas Filipinos.
“This hearing ensures that the government’s response remains swift, coordinated, and accountable. In times of crisis, every Filipino must know that their government stands firmly beside them and will do everything possible to protect their safety and welfare,” the lady legislator said.
Government agencies also reported that Philippine embassies and labor offices across the region remain on 24/7 alert, providing welfare assistance, monitoring developments, and facilitating repatriation arrangements for Filipinos who wish to return home. Officials underscored that the Philippine Government is responding through a One Country Team Approach, ensuring close coordination among embassies, labor offices, and other relevant agencies assisting Filipinos in the region.
Revilla reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding overseas Filipino workers and their families.
“In this time of crisis, we must stand just as firmly for them.”
“Our overseas Filipino workers have always stood strong for the nation. In this time of crisis, we must stand just as firmly for them,” the lawmaker said.
The joint committees also reiterated their readiness to support the efforts of concerned government agencies and ensure that adequate resources and policy support are available to protect Filipinos affected by the conflict.
