The Philippine government has pledged immediate support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Jamaica and nearby Caribbean territories following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, a storm authorities say is the most powerful ever recorded in Jamaica.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said on Thursday that the agency is closely tracking the impact of the Category 5 cyclone and coordinating relief efforts for Filipinos affected by the disaster.
“We understand how tough this time is, especially for families in the Philippines worried about their loved ones abroad,” Cacdac said. “Rest assured, your government is actively working to protect the well-being of every Filipino in Jamaica and nearby Caribbean islands.”
The DMW is working with the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, its Migrant Workers Office–Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (MWO-OWWA), the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Jamaica led by Honorary Consul Keith Russell, and Filipino community leaders on the ground to extend assistance.
Filipinos in affected areas have been urged to remain indoors or move to government-approved shelters, keep documents like passports and IDs secured in waterproof containers, and follow only verified advisories from authorities and the embassy.
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 system before weakening as it moved across the region, according to the US National Hurricane Center. Local reports confirmed extensive flooding and widespread power outages, with authorities recording 25 deaths in Haiti, including children, and at least four fatalities in Jamaica.
Cacdac said the government continues to monitor the situation to ensure help reaches those who need it most. The DMW provided emergency contacts for Filipinos in Jamaica and nearby territories, including lines to the embassy in Washington, MWO-OWWA officials, and the honorary consulate in Kingston.
“We call on all Filipinos to stay calm, vigilant, and connected with their community networks,” Cacdac said. “Your safety remains our top priority. Remember, you are not alone. Your government stands with you, and the Filipino nation is praying for your safety and recovery.”
