Iloilo PESOs Profile 61 Ilonggo OFWs Amid Israel-Iran Conflict

ILOILO CITY – As of June 18, 2025, the Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) of Iloilo province and city have officially profiled 61 Ilonggo overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The profiling effort, led by provincial PESO manager Cynthia Dario, includes 37 individuals from various municipalities in Iloilo, including 15 from Zarraga, 10 from Maasin, and others from municipalities such as Janiuay, Oton, Leganes, Pototan, and San Joaquin. Additionally, 24 OFWs from Iloilo City were also accounted for.

Dario reported that among the profiled workers, 14 individuals declared themselves safe, while 18 did not specify their current situation, and five reported feeling unsafe. The situation remains fluid, with many Ilonggo OFWs opting to stay in Israel for the time being. "These numbers are increasing as we continue to monitor and profile the affected individuals. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. aims to ascertain the count of Ilonggos affected not only in Israel but also in other regions impacted by the conflict," she stated during an interview.

The PESOs have activated their Operation Bulig Ilonggo hotlines, which remain operational 24/7 to assist families and relatives of the affected workers. Dario expressed gratitude to municipal PESO managers, barangay coordinators, and OFW association leaders for their contribution to the profiling process.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Felix Umadhay, manager of Iloilo City PESO, indicated that they have been actively monitoring the 24 OFWs from the city since the onset of the crisis in Tel Aviv last year. Notably, there have been no new deployments to Israel from Iloilo City since 2019. Many of these workers are employed in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, household services, and the food industry. Umadhay noted that, when surveyed about their desire to return home, the OFWs expressed that they felt secure in their current situations, particularly those working in hospitals, which have established safety protocols. "They feel safer in their area, and that is why they are not alarmed about returning home. We remain available 24/7 for them, and should they wish to be repatriated, the city government stands ready to assist," he stated.

In preparation for any potential repatriation, both PESO managers emphasized the support available to returning OFWs, including financial aid and livelihood assistance. Dario highlighted that the provincial government offers PHP10,000 in financial assistance, while also connecting returning workers to relevant government offices for further support such as reemployment, skills training, and psychological assistance. Similarly, Umadhay noted that the city government can provide cash assistance ranging from PHP10,000 to PHP25,000, along with startup business support between PHP15,000 and PHP30,000 for those seeking to establish new ventures.

This profiling initiative occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns for many families in the Philippines regarding the safety of their loved ones abroad. The Iloilo PESOs' proactive measures reflect a commitment to ensuring the welfare of OFWs during these uncertain times, collaborating closely with local and national government entities to provide necessary support and resources. As the situation evolves, authorities continue to monitor developments closely, ensuring that assistance remains accessible to those impacted by international conflicts.

In conclusion, the ongoing conflict underscores the vulnerability of OFWs and the vital role that government agencies play in safeguarding their interests. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.