OFW Deployment Ban remains in effect despite a recommendation to lower Israel’s alert level from 3 to 2.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Germinia Aguilar-Usudan shared that the recommendation, made by Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola-Rau, aims to reduce the crisis alert level but does not affect the ongoing ban on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to Israel.
Israel’s Security Situation and Alert Level Change
While the alert level change signals some improvement in security, OFW deployments to Israel will not resume until further negotiations between the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Israeli government.
The DFA has emphasized that, despite the recommendation, OFWs cannot return to work in Israel until a formal agreement is reached.
Currently, Israel remains under alert level 3, which allows for voluntary repatriation. This means Filipinos in Israel can choose to return home but are not forced to do so.
The DFA continues to monitor the situation closely and provides assistance to those who decide to come back. Meanwhile, OFW deployment in other Arab countries, excluding Lebanon, continues without restriction.
Official Statements from DFA Officials
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega explained that while there is hope for a future alert level 2 in Israel, OFW deployment will not resume immediately, especially with the ongoing conflict in Gaza and between Israel and Hamas.
The DFA also assured that Filipino nationals in Israel are being closely monitored, with over 400 Filipinos currently receiving aid. This includes helping those displaced due to the conflict and assisting a Filipina caregiver in critical condition because of the attacks.
Diplomatic Efforts and Peace Stance
The Philippines continues to support a two-state solution for peace between Israel and Palestine. However, the DFA stressed that peace negotiations should be long-term, focusing on dialogue and cooperation between both parties.
OFW Repatriation and Government Assistance
While the recommendation to lower the alert level is a step towards normalization, the OFW deployment ban will remain until the DFA and DMW determine it is safe to resume sending workers to Israel. The Philippine government remains committed to ensuring the safety of all Filipino workers and assisting them through this challenging period.
Conclusion
Despite the positive step of lowering the alert level, the OFW deployment ban to Israel remains in effect until conditions improve and a new agreement is reached. Filipinos in Israel are urged to follow government advisories, with the DFA ensuring continued support for those affected by the situation.
References:
- DFA Press Release – Official announcement on the recommendation to lower Israel’s alert level and the ongoing OFW deployment ban.
- Department of Foreign Affairs – Statements from Germinia Aguilar-Usudan and Eduardo de Vega on the situation in Israel and the Middle East.
- Philippine Embassy in Israel – Updates and assistance provided to displaced Filipinos and those affected by the conflict.
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