The administration has pledged swift and comprehensive assistance for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning from the Middle East amid escalating regional tensions, focusing on employment, skills development, and livelihood opportunities.
The commitment was underscored during the fourth meeting of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Education and Jobs Sector Group on Wednesday, April 8, where officials and private stakeholders discussed measures to support affected workers.
Under the government’s response plan, returning OFWs will be assisted through job matching initiatives, targeted upskilling programs, and access to entrepreneurship opportunities to help them reintegrate into the local economy.
Authorities also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen digitalization, support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence across government services and key economic sectors, according to the Presidential Communications Office.
In a related measure, the administration also announced expanded access to Pag-IBIG savings withdrawal for OFWs affected by the Middle East situation, aiming to provide immediate financial relief.
The government emphasized its coordination with the private sector to ensure a faster, more organized response in cushioning the impact of geopolitical tensions on Filipino workers abroad.
