The ongoing unrest in the Middle East has prompted the Philippine government to repatriate more than 10,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), dependents, and stranded citizens. As of May 24, 2026, a total of 10,129 Filipinos have returned home, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
Government's Coordinated Response
The repatriation initiative forms part of a whole-of-government approach aimed at ensuring the safety, orderly return, and immediate assistance for Filipinos caught in the crisis.
Department of Migrant Workers
- 7,988 OFWs
- 1,779 dependents
- 362 stranded Filipinos
The DMW, alongside the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs, has facilitated this large-scale repatriation effort. Financial aid and emergency assistance have also been extended to 34,188 affected Filipinos, in line with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In addition to repatriation efforts, the government has provided extensive onsite assistance, including food, transport, shelter, and medical aid to OFWs still in host countries. So far, 70,148 onsite services have been delivered, covering a wide range of welfare and emergency support.
As the situation develops, authorities continue to assure the public that repatriation operations are ongoing. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of Filipinos abroad, particularly in conflict-affected regions.
The historical context of these repatriations reflects a long-standing commitment by the Philippine government to protect its citizens working overseas, especially in times of crisis.