A legislative inquiry into the Philippines’ preparedness for the ongoing Middle East conflict has been scheduled for March 6, with multiple government agencies expected to face questions from lawmakers.
Senator Erwin Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations committee, confirmed the hearing during a press conference, saying agencies including the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Migrant Workers, the departments of Energy, Transportation, and Trade and Industry would be called to attend.
“It’s legislation, in aid of legislation, how to resolve these issues and be prepared. We have to prepare for this, for any eventualities. Kung tumagal pa po itong crisis na ito (if this crisis continues further), what do we have to do? We will ask these various agencies…what’s in store? Are we ready for this?” Tulfo said.
The hearing comes as 22 of 24 senators backed a proposed resolution — Senate Resolution No. 325 — pushing the government to act swiftly on two fronts: safeguarding overseas Filipino workers in the region and cushioning the domestic economy from the fallout of the conflict.
Among the resolution’s specific appeals is a call for the DFA and Philippine foreign service posts to strengthen travel advisories and crisis communications directed at OFWs. It likewise urges the DMW, together with recruitment agencies, to broaden welfare and monitoring programs for workers abroad.
On the economic side, the measure flagged the threat of global oil supply disruptions feeding into domestic fuel-price swings, with knock-on effects on exporters, supply chains, transport costs, food prices, and broader economic activity. It called on the government to consider a temporary suspension or reduction of fuel excise taxes under clearly defined conditions and to provide targeted support to exporters hit by trade and logistics disruptions.
“There is an urgent need to activate and expand existing targeted fuel assistance programs for vulnerable sectors, including public transport drivers and agriculture/ fisheries beneficiaries, using available appropriations in accordance with existing budget rules,” the resolution read.
“Hindi po tayo mga OFW (we’re not OFWs), let’s not forget, ladies and gentlemen, pero (but) we will be affected within the next few days,” Tulfo added, underscoring that the crisis carries consequences well beyond the Filipino diaspora.
Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa were the only members of the chamber who did not sign the resolution.
