House to hold key briefing on OFWs' welfare amid Middle East conflict--Sandro Marcos
At A Glance
- Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos bared that the House of Representatives will carry out a briefing with local authorities on the escalating conflict in the Middle East this coming Wednesday, March 11.
Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos (Facebook)
Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos bared that the House of Representatives will carry out a briefing with local authorities on the escalating conflict in the Middle East this coming Wednesday, March 11.
This, as the presidential son underscored the need to closely monitor the situation and ensure the safety of the estimated 2.4 million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the region.
In a statement Sunday, March 8, Marcos said the House leadership under Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has asked the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and on Overseas Workers Affairs to conduct the joint briefing.
Through these proceedings, the House will obtain an updated assessment of the situation and the government’s preparedness to assist Filipinos working in affected countries.
“With a significant number of Filipinos working across the Middle East, it is important that we stay ahead of developments and ensure that the necessary support mechanisms are in place,” Marcos said.
“The House wants to receive a full briefing on the situation on the ground and on the readiness of our agencies to assist our nationals should conditions require government intervention,” he added.
Marcos said officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and other relevant agencies will be invited to present updates on the number of Filipinos in affected areas, current security conditions, and contingency plans for assistance, evacuation, or repatriation if necessary.
“Our overseas Filipino workers play a vital role in supporting millions of Filipino families and contributing to the country’s economic stability,” said the majority leader.
“At a time of uncertainty in the region, it is important that government remains fully prepared to protect their welfare and provide assistance when needed,” the Ilocano stressed.