PHILIPPINES: Prolonged Middle East conflict could put hundreds of thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at risk, while also raising fuel prices and pushing more families into poverty, government officials warned.
Contents
How many OFWs could lose their jobs due to the Middle East war?
According to the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev), around 200,000 to 340,000 workers may lose their jobs if the conflict continues.
This estimate is based on a possible rise in unemployment from 4.6% to 5.3% in 2026. Officials said job losses may increase further if more OFWs are forced to return home due to deployment bans or safety concerns.
Why are fuel prices rising in the Philippines right now?
Fuel prices are going up mainly because of disruptions in global oil supply.
The conflict has affected the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil shipments. Iran’s actions in the area have slowed down supply, pushing prices higher worldwide.
The Philippines imports about 98% of its oil, making it highly sensitive to global price changes. This leads to higher transport costs, which also affect food and daily expenses.
How will the Middle East conflict affect Filipino families?
Higher oil prices and job losses can reduce household income.
Many Filipino families rely on remittances from OFWs. If workers lose jobs or earn less, families may struggle to pay for basic needs like food, transport, and school expenses.
Officials also warned that inflation and reduced spending could slow down the local economy.
How many Filipinos could fall into poverty because of the crisis?
DepDev estimates that 150,000 to 600,000 more Filipinos could fall below the poverty line.
In a worst-case scenario, this number could reach up to 650,000, especially if fuel prices continue to rise.
This would push the poverty rate higher from the current baseline of about 12%.
What assistance is available for displaced OFWs?
The government is preparing support through a Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
More than P200 billion has been allocated for programs such as:
- Financial aid and emergency support
- Livelihood and job programs
- Food and transport assistance
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) also continues to assist returning OFWs through repatriation and reintegration programs.