SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Saturday urgently called for the swift repatriation of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the ongoing armed conflict between Israeli forces and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
At the same time, Speaker Romualdez vowed to contribute another P500,000 from his personal funds to assist the family of the third Filipino casualty in the Israel-Hamas conflict. In an earlier display of unity and compassion, the Speaker—along with Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez—had collectively pledged a personal donation of P1 million (P500,000 each) to support the families of the initial two Filipinos who tragically lost their lives during the hostilities.
Expressing deep concern for the safety and well-being of Filipino citizens abroad, Speaker Romualdez stressed the need for swift action by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to facilitate the return of OFWs from Israel and Hamas-run Gaza strip.
The leader of the 300 plus-strong House of Representatives highlighted the urgency of the situation with a significant number of Filipinos expressing their desire to return home.
“What we’ve learned from DFA and credible news sources is that more than a hundred OFWs are eager to return to the Philippines,” Romualdez pointed out.
He added: “I am confident in the preparedness of our Armed Forces, with their C-130 aircraft at the ready to transport and bring our OFWs safely back home. But I believe the DFA and DMW have the necessary funds to facilitate the repatriation of our OFWs, enabling them to charter flights for this purpose.”
According to the latest information from the DFA, out of the 131 Filipinos in Gaza, a significant 92 individuals have expressed their desire to return to the Philippines. Additionally, in Israel, at least 22 Filipinos have formally requested repatriation, highlighting the urgent need for action to ensure their safe return.
According to Speaker Romualdez, mercy flights need not land directly in Israel, as alternative locations like Egypt or Jordan could be considered for the safety and convenience of OFWs.
The Speaker further encouraged OFWs in conflict areas to promptly contact the Philippine Embassy to facilitate their return and avoid any potential risks in the midst of the escalating conflict.
“The safety and welfare of Filipino citizens are paramount, and we are committed to working closely with the DFA, DMW, and other relevant authorities to ensure the swift and secure repatriation of our OFWs from the conflict areas,” the House chief said.
The recent outbreak of hostilities in the region, triggered by attacks from Hamas fighters, has claimed the lives of numerous Israelis and other nationals, and resulted in the abduction of hundreds more. Israel has declared an all-out war against Hamas, vowing to take decisive action against the group.
The armed conflict sadly led to the loss of three Filipino lives. The first two victims include a 42-year-old man from Pampanga, who was apprehended by Hamas militants, and a 33-year-old woman from Pangasinan, who lost her life alongside her employer.
The third victim was a 49-year-old Filipina hailing from Negros Occidental, who was attending a music festival near the Gaza-Israel border when it was targeted by Hamas militants on October 7. It is worth mentioning that all three victims were dedicated caregivers, whose lives were cut short by the devastating conflict.
In addition to financial aid, Speaker Romualdez is determined to help grieving families.
He is actively seeking ways to provide job opportunities and scholarships, ensuring they have support to rebuild their lives after this tragedy.
