Despite growing tensions in the Middle East, many Filipino workers in Israel have chosen not to return home, according to Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Cacdac.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Cacdac clarified that the Philippine government has not ordered a mandatory repatriation of nationals from Israel. Instead, the decision to return remains voluntary.
Cacdac explained that most Filipinos in Israel work as caregivers, and their deep emotional and professional attachments to their elderly patients often make it difficult for them to leave.
“By the nature of their work, they work closely, have emotional as well as professional ties with their elderly patients or wards, and therefore are committed, dedicated to their work,” he said. “So it’s still pretty much based on the nature of their work.”
He added that financial stability also weighs heavily on their decisions, acknowledging that salaries earned in Israel are a significant consideration. However, he stressed that the government is working to provide meaningful financial assistance for those who opt to return.
“The President has instructed us to step up our financial assistance efforts, not just token [aid] which doesn’t really help,” Cacdac said.
Data from the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv show that more than 30,000 Filipinos currently reside in Israel. From October 7, 2023 to June 12, 2025, a total of 1,333 individuals have been repatriated.
As of now, 78 Filipinos have expressed their desire to return to the Philippines, with 26 already cleared for repatriation.
Tensions surged in the region following Israeli strikes on Iran on June 13, targeting military and nuclear facilities—an act that came after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of a looming “massive conflict.”
