Leave Lebanon, OFWs told

MANILA, Philippines — Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Lebanon should consider leaving the war-torn country amid the conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, according to the Philippine embassy in Beirut.

“The embassy continues to extend its services and support, especially to OFWs in remote areas,” the embassy said.

The Department of Migrant Workers also called on OFWs in Lebanon and other war-torn countries to return home.

“We are ready to assist those who are willing to be repatriated. We are encouraging OFWs to avail themselves of the voluntary repatriation program,” Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac said on Tuesday.

The embassy offered consular services in Zahlé, one of the largest cities in Lebanon, in partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

Based on DMW data, 1,108 OFWs and 46 dependents were repatriated from Israel, Lebanon, West Bank and Gaza between October 2023 and August 2024.

Of the number, 811 Filipinos were from Israel, 289 from Lebanon, six from West Bank and two from Gaza.

Financial and other assistance will be provided to returning OFWs, Cacdac said.