Philippine Government Repatriates First Batch of OFWs from Iran

On June 28, 2025, the Philippine government successfully repatriated the first batch of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Iran amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Six OFWs arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City aboard Emirates flight EK 334, marking a significant step in the government's efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad. This group is part of the initial eight workers who sought repatriation due to the ongoing conflict that intensified on June 13, 2025.

The repatriated workers included five shrimp hatchery technicians and one domestic worker who was accompanying her employer on a trip to Iran. Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by officials from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

OWWA has committed to providing accommodations for the returning workers in Manila, along with domestic flights to their respective home provinces. This repatriation follows an earlier evacuation of 31 OFWs from Israel, who were also fleeing the regional conflict. As of late June, only eight Filipinos in Iran had requested repatriation, with no more than 30 Filipinos residing in the country, primarily as spouses and children of Iranian nationals.

The DFA raised Alert Level 3 on June 20 for both Iran and Israel, which allows for the voluntary repatriation of Filipinos in those regions. This action was taken a day after the DMW announced a restriction on OFW deployments in the Middle East due to the escalating violence. According to Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Sarah Lou Arriola from the DFA, the safety of Filipinos abroad is the government’s top priority, stating, "We are committed to ensuring that all OFWs in conflict zones are protected and given the opportunity to return home safely."

The repatriation process reflects the Philippine government's proactive stance in safeguarding its citizens, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions. While the situation remains precarious, the government continues to monitor developments closely and is prepared to assist any additional OFWs seeking to return home.

This repatriation operation is indicative of broader diplomatic efforts by the Philippines to respond effectively to international crises involving its citizens.

For the future, the Department of Migrant Workers plans to establish more comprehensive support systems for OFWs in conflict regions, ensuring they are well-informed of their rights and options during emergencies. As the situation develops, further repatriation efforts may be necessary, contingent on the progress of the conflict in Iran and Israel. The Philippine government emphasizes its commitment to the welfare of its citizens, reinforcing its diplomatic channels for ongoing collaboration with host countries to ensure the safety of OFWs worldwide.