The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon assured the public that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) residing in the country are safe despite ongoing unrest.
“We’ve already identified area coordinators for respective areas here in Lebanon. We’ve already identified shelters. In fact, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) has already identified and recommended a shelter in the event of a truly catastrophic mass evacuation,” Ambassador Raymond Balatbat said in a joint press conference with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila.
“And we’ve already been in contact with the Lebanese authorities and immigration authorities. We’ve been in discussions with them on how to facilitate the repatriation of OFWs, especially those who are undocumented. Actually, we’re ready,” he added.
Although there are approximately 11,000 Filipinos in Lebanon, Balatbat said that a number of them remain undocumented. In the southern part of Lebanon, where the conflict is concentrated, at least 196 Filipinos have been relocated to the capital of Beirut.
In response to feedback from community leaders and area coordinators, the ambassador said most Filipinos prefer to stay in Lebanon. Out of the initial 1,000 who applied for repatriation, at least half later withdrew their applications.
Balatbat explained that most Filipinos in Lebanon have not expressed serious concern about the escalating conflict. Some of them stated they are accustomed to conflict due to its longstanding presence in the country. Many continue their daily routines and work, trusting that the embassy is closely monitoring the situation.
He addressed that Filipinos “would rather take their chances” in Lebanon than go home, as they have survived most of the wars. He also pointed out that loyalty plays a significant role, with many Filipinos feeling a deep care for their employers after years of working together.
