The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has directed its offices to mobilize assistance for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the magnitude 6.7 earthquake that rocked parts of Eastern Visayas on September 30.
In an official statement released Wednesday, the DMW said the quake struck several areas, including Biliran, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Ormoc, and Tacloban City.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac instructed officials to prioritize the safety and welfare of OFWs who may be stranded at airports and seaports. “Tulungan ang mga OFWs na maaaring maipit sa mga paliparan at pantalan (inbound at outbound) at magbigay ng accommodation, transportasyon, at pagkain,” the order stated.
For OFWs requiring employment documentation services, the DMW assured that requests could be processed online. Both the DMW Central and Regional Offices are tasked to handle these needs promptly.
The agency also confirmed it is working closely with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to check on the situation of OFW families and seafarers in quake-affected areas. The department emphasized its priority to “matukoy ang kanilang kagyat na pangangailangan at maihatid ang nararapat na tulong.”
Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the DMW reiterated its readiness to act as a frontline responder in disaster situations. “Hindi kayo nag-iisa. Kasama ninyo ang DMW—nakikiisa, kaagapay, at handang tumulong sa inyong pangangailangan,” the statement read.
For urgent concerns, families of OFWs and seafarers have been advised to reach out to the nearest DMW or OWWA Regional Office or call the 24/7 hotline at 1348.
