The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has launched a new financial aid program to support Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) facing hardships due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. If you or someone you know is an OFW in the region dealing with job loss or income cuts, immediate relief is now available.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac recently announced a one-time cash assistance of $200, which equals roughly PHP 12,000. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved an PHP 800 million budget to fund this initiative. The money aims to help workers who suddenly find themselves with reduced working hours, salary cuts, or terminated contracts because of regional instability.
Who Qualifies for the Support?
The cash aid covers OFWs living and working in 10 countries across the Middle East: Bahrain, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Many workers in these areas face tough employment challenges right now. For example, some retail workers rely heavily on tourist traffic. With fewer tourists arriving, companies have cut work schedules down to just a few days a week, directly shrinking workers’ take-home pay.
A Fast and Simple Application Process
To make sure you get help quickly, the DMW created a simplified application process. Applicants need to submit four basic items:
- A completed Request for Assistance form
- A valid copy of your passport
- Proof of overseas employment, such as a visa, labor card, or employment contract
- Proof of income disruption, like a termination notice, employer certification, or reduced pay slip
Getting official documents from an employer is not always possible during a crisis. Because of this, the DMW allows a self-declaration option. You can simply write a personal statement explaining your job loss or reduced income. The department will also accept certifications from recognized Filipino community organizations.
Part of a Larger Crisis Response
This $200 payout is just one piece of a much larger effort to protect Filipinos abroad. Authorities have already distributed this specific cash aid to more than 4,500 affected OFWs.
Beyond direct financial help, the government continues to fund flights, food, shelter, and medical care. As part of this broader crisis response, the DMW has safely brought home over 6,600 Filipinos and provided on-the-ground support services to more than 30,000 OFWs.
This massive support network shows a strong, ongoing commitment to keeping OFWs safe and secure when unexpected crises strike. If you need assistance, reach out to your nearest DMW office or migrant workers center to start your application today.