Preemptive measures urged for safety of OFWs in Taiwan

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has appealed to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to put preemptive measures in place for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan should a crisis arise in the future.

This comes after China sent warships and aircraft near Taiwan following Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, causing tensions to rise in the region.

“We must always be proactive and think ahead when it comes to the welfare of our fellow Filipinos abroad,” explained Go. “In light of recent events, we must take steps to ensure their safety and well-being, including preemptive measures like alternative livelihoods and repatriation plans.”

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese military recently announced that it has commenced military drills in the vicinity of Taiwan, scheduled to last for three days.

There are nearly 150,000 OFWs in Taiwan, according to the DMW. Go’s appeal is a proactive step toward safeguarding their safety in any eventuality.

“The safety and welfare of our kababayans in Taiwan should always be our top priority,” Go stressed.

He also called on the Department of Foreign Affairs, DMW and other concerned agencies to closely monitor the situation and to provide assistance to OFWs who may be affected by the military drills.

Go was one of the authors and co-sponsors of the Senate version of Republic Act 11641 which created the DMW. It is the consolidated version of an earlier measure he filed which sought to create the Department of Overseas Filipino Workers, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of key government services for OFWs.