Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain – As regional tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel continue to raise concerns across the Middle East, the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain has called on all Filipinos in the Kingdom to remain calm, stay united, and support one another during this time of uncertainty. At the same time, the Embassy has intensified its efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Bahrain.
Since the conflict began, the Embassy has been closely monitoring the situation and its potential impact on the Filipino community. The initiative is being led by His Excellency Ambassador Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, in coordination with the Labor Attaché of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, and OWWA Welfare Officer Juvilyn Anns Gumabay from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Assistance teams were immediately dispatched to evacuation shelters and designated support areas, providing welfare checks, distributing essential supplies, and offering guidance on government programs available to Filipinos in need.
The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) has been receiving messages and inquiries daily from Filipino workers, reflecting the growing concern among expatriates amid ongoing regional tensions. Many of these messages seek updates on personal safety, possible contingency measures, and clarification on reports circulating online regarding financial assistance. To address these concerns, the MWO and the Philippine Embassy have intensified their information dissemination and assistance efforts, ensuring that the Filipino community remains informed, reassured, and supported during this period of uncertainty.
As part of its proactive measures, the Embassy, through MWO and OWWA, has conducted the distribution of cash assistance and grocery bags to affected OFWs. Among the beneficiaries was Dalisay Buenaobra, 61, from Camarines Sur, who shared that the aid provided immediate relief for her daily needs:
“I am very thankful for the 20 BD assistance given to us. It is already a big help for buying food since our work stopped when the conflict began here. Thank you to the Philippine Embassy, the Migrant Workers Office, and OWWA for their support,” Buenaobra said.
Likewise, Kristine Canada, 39, from Catanduanes in the Bicol Region, expressed her gratitude for the same support:
“The 20 BD may seem small, but it goes a long way in helping with our daily needs, especially during this time when many of us are worried about our jobs,” Canada said.
There are approximately 56,000 documented Filipinos in Bahrain, highlighting the significant presence of the Filipino community in the Kingdom and the importance of ensuring their safety and welfare amid regional tensions.
Amid these challenges, the Philippine Embassy continues to coordinate closely with the host government to safeguard the safety and welfare of all Filipino nationals. Information advisories, assistance hotlines, and consular services remain fully operational to provide timely guidance and support to OFWs who may require assistance. Members of the Filipino community are encouraged to remain vigilant, monitor developments through official channels, and promptly reach out to the MWO or OWWA if needed.
For beneficiaries like Buenaobra and Canada, the assistance not only provides immediate relief but also reaffirms the Philippine government’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding and supporting its citizens abroad, particularly during periods of regional uncertainty. Through continued coordination, timely support, and community outreach, Filipinos in Bahrain are reminded that even far from home, they are not alone, and that unity, compassion, and cooperation remain their strongest pillars of resilience.
