SPEAKER of the House Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III has issued a statement expressing serious concern over the escalating situation in Iran and the broader Middle East, emphasizing the safety and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the region.
Speaker Dy affirmed the importance of ensuring the safety of OFWs, who he described as a vital part of the nation and its economy, and providing them with the necessary support during times of need.
Speaker Dy acknowledged and commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decisive actions in directing concerned government agencies to determine the whereabouts of Filipinos in the Middle East, take immediate steps to ensure their safety, and activate contingency measures as tensions escalate. He called on the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to ensure that contingency plans are fully operational, assistance teams are ready, and communication lines remain open and responsive at all times.
“Ang ating mga OFW ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating bansa at ng ating ekonomiya. Mahalaga na matiyak ang kanilang kaligtasan at maibigay ang kinakailangang suporta sa oras ng pangangailangan (Our OFWs are an important part of our country and our economy. It is important to ensure their safety and provide the necessary support in times of need),” Speaker Dy stated.
Speaker Dy also appealed to Filipinos in the affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to official advisories issued by the government. He concluded by expressing hope for a peaceful resolution of tensions and reaffirming that the safety and protection of the Filipino people will always be the foremost priority.
