Government restrictions to Israel have been eased following the improvement of the security situation between Israel and Iran, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.

The security improvement following a ceasefire between the two countries prompted the Department of Foreign Affairs to lower the alert to Level 2 (restriction phase), which means overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with valid contracts to Israel can now go back.

“But we need to prioritize their safety and welfare wherever they are,” said Cacdac.

Despite the easing of restrictions, Cacdac emphasized that the deployment of newly-hired workers is not yet recommended.

He assured that the DMW will abide by all deployment rules in coordination with the DFA, particularly for newly hired workers whose deployment will resume only upon further security assessments

As of June 30, there are 195 OFWs who requested for repatriation but are now having second thoughts to go home following positive developments in Israel’s security situation.

Meanwhile, Cacdac said OFWs in Israel continue to receive onsite assistance, and this includes repatriation if they want to go back to the Philippines.

“Regardless of the alert level. OFWs in need will be assisted by the DMW and the whole of government,” said Cacdac.

To date, there are 294 Filipinos who were provided with food packs and hygiene kits, while there are 188 OFWs who were provided with immediate financial assistance worth $200.

The MWO Tel-Aviv also continuously monitors and regularly conducts its welfare check for 431 OFWs, as it maintains four welfare shelters – two are currently operating in Rehovot and outside Tel Aviv.

Since October 2023, a total of 1,357 have been repatriated from Israel, consisting of 1,320 OFWs and 37 dependents.

Also, a group consisting of 45 OFWs from Israel are set to return home this week—all who have availed of the government’s voluntary repatriation program