Romualdez urges protection for OFWs, de-escalation of Israel-Iran hostilities

Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday called for restraint and renewed diplomacy amid rising hostilities between Israel and Iran, warning that continued escalation threatens not only regional stability but also the safety of Filipino workers across the Middle East.

“We are watching these developments with grave concern. Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., our foremost priority is the protection of our overseas Filipino workers who may be caught in the crossfire of this dangerous standoff,” said Romualdez.

Tensions between the two countries have intensified in recent days following a series of retaliatory strikes in the region.

Romualdez urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to intensify coordination efforts with host governments and international partners, especially in Lebanon, Israel, Jordan and the Gulf states, where large Filipino communities reside.

“We expect our frontline agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety and security of our kababayans, including possible repatriation plans should the situation worsen,” Romualdez said.

He emphasized that the Philippines, as a peace-loving nation with deep ties across the region, has consistently supported diplomatic solutions to armed conflict.

“We call on all parties involved to take a step back and allow diplomacy to do its work,” Speaker Romualdez said. “This is a time for dialogue, not destruction. Any further escalation will only deepen human suffering and destabilize an already fragile region.”

“No Filipino should be left behind in a time of crisis. The House stands in full solidarity with our OFWs and will work closely with our executive agencies to ensure their welfare,” the Speaker added.

Romualdez also echoed global appeals for restraint and called on regional and international actors to step in and facilitate de-escalation before violence spirals beyond control.

“This conflict is unfolding in a region that has known too much war and too little peace. The world must not allow another full-blown crisis to erupt,” he said.

As diplomatic channels remain open, the Speaker urged Filipino communities abroad to stay calm, monitor official advisories and keep communication lines open with Philippine embassies and consulates.

“The best way to face uncertainty is through unity and vigilance. We will not waver in our commitment to every Filipino’s safety, wherever they may be in the world,” Romualdez said.