SEN. Erwin Tulfo on Sunday urged overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in France, Saudi Arabia and Israel to take extra precautions amid reports of unrest and security threats in the three countries.
Tulfo, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, advised Filipinos in France, particularly in Paris, to remain vigilant, “especially when going to work, because of massive riots and looting.”
Violent clashes and looting were reported in Paris and other French cities during protests, prompting police to disperse demonstrators and respond to incidents of property damage.
Tulfo advised Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia to monitor security advisories and news reports before heading to work, citing reported attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces, citing the seven OFWs who were wounded due to the attack at the King Khalid International Airport.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said it would provide medical and financial assistance to the seven workers injured in the attacks in Saudi Arabia.
Tulfo advised Filipinos in Israel to avoid traveling to the West Bank whenever possible, citing reports of alleged attacks by masked Israeli settlers against foreigners.
Palestinian olive harvesters and foreign nationals were reported to have been assaulted in the occupied West Bank.
Tulfo has pursued legislative measures aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by Filipinos seeking overseas employment.
In January, he filed the proposed OFW Pre-Employment Loan Assistance Act, which seeks to establish a loan assistance program for workers who need financial support before leaving the country for overseas jobs.
He has also co-authored legislation seeking to provide free financial education to OFWs and their families, reflecting efforts to help migrant workers manage their earnings and financial obligations.
