ILOILO — Fifty-four Ilonggo overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) displaced or adversely affected by escalating conflicts in the Middle East and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war have received P10,000 each in emergency financial assistance from the Iloilo provincial government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The assistance was extended to OFWs affected by the crisis involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, as well as the continuing war between Russia and Ukraine, providing immediate relief to workers whose livelihoods and sources of income were disrupted by the international conflicts.
The distribution of assistance was spearheaded by the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager (OPPESM) and the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (OPSWDO) in partnership with DSWD Region 6.
Funding for the aid came from the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program after Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. requested support for affected OFWs and their families struggling with the economic impact of the conflicts abroad.
Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, who attended the distribution activity, acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of overseas workers to their families and to the country.
He assured beneficiaries that the provincial government, together with partner agencies, remains committed to assisting repatriated OFWs as they transition back to life in the province.
Meanwhile, OPPESM head Dr. Cynthia P. Dario reiterated the governor’s commitment to ensuring that repatriated OFWs receive the support they need as they rebuild their lives and livelihoods following their return home.
Provincial officials said the initiative underscores the provincial government’s continuing commitment to protecting the welfare of Ilonggos affected by international crises and ensuring that vulnerable residents receive assistance during periods of uncertainty./PN
