OVER 18,900 documented overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Central Visayas are currently working in five Middle Eastern countries amidst regional tensions.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Central Visayas (OWWA 7) reported this data on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
Of the total, 18,919 OFWs from Region 7 are deployed in Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, and Lebanon. Kuwait hosts the largest number with 16,849, followed by Jordan (1,023), Lebanon (633), Israel (392), and Iran (22).
Cebu Province has the highest concentration of OFWs in these countries, accounting for 10,898 individuals. Bohol has 4,141, Negros Oriental 3,567, and Siquijor 313.
OWWA 7 clarified that these figures only include documented and OWWA-registered OFWs. Undocumented Filipinos in these areas are not part of the count.
While no OFWs from Region 7 have been repatriated due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, OWWA 7 confirmed receiving two repatriation requests from OFWs in Iran. The Philippine Embassy in Tehran is coordinating with these individuals to facilitate their safe return and provide necessary assistance.
OWWA 7 shared these updates during its public service program, "Serbisyong OWWA Syete," which aired on June 26, 2025.
The agency assures the public it continues to monitor the situation closely and stands ready to offer welfare and repatriation support to affected Central Visayas OFWs. (CDF)