Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos on Sunday called for a congressional briefing on the escalating conflict in the Middle East, stressing the need to closely monitor developments and ensure the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Marcos said Speaker Faustino Dy III has directed the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs to hold a joint briefing on March 11 to obtain an updated assessment of the situation and the government’s preparedness to assist Filipinos in affected countries.
“With a significant number of Filipinos working across the Middle East, it is important that we stay ahead of developments and ensure that the necessary support mechanisms are in place,” Marcos said.
“The House wants to receive a full briefing on the situation on the ground and on the readiness of our agencies to assist our nationals should conditions require government intervention,” he added.
Marcos, the House majority leader, said officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Migrant Workers, and other concerned agencies would be invited to present updates on the number of Filipinos in affected areas, prevailing security conditions, and contingency plans for assistance, evacuation, or repatriation if necessary.
“Our OFWs play a vital role in supporting millions of Filipino families and contributing to the country’s economic stability,” he said.
“At a time of uncertainty in the region, it is important that government remains fully prepared to protect their welfare and provide assistance when needed,” he added.
