THE SAFETY of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) surges to the forefront of national concern every time geopolitical tensions simmer abroad. In Lebanon, a looming conflict between the terror group Hezbollah and Israel threatens the lives of OFWs, and this necessitates urgent measures. Here, the Iloilo provincial government sets a smart example of how local governance can extend its reach beyond borders to safeguard its citizens.
The initiative by the Iloilo Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to activate 24/7 emergency hotlines merits national attention. These hotlines – in coordination with concerned national government agencies – are vital lifelines for around 1,000 documented OFWs from Iloilo in Lebanon, offering a direct link for assistance, from repatriation requests to critical updates on the evolving crisis.
What sets Iloilo apart is its strategic integration of local resources to form the Task Force “Bulig Ilonggo.” Established under Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s Executive Order 004 series of 2020, this taskforce shows the foresight of the provincial government in preempting the needs of its OFWs. It ensures that in times of international distress, no Ilonggo abroad feels isolated or forgotten.
Governor Defensor’s mandate for municipal and barangay networks to mobilize in identifying and tracing OFWs is a wise localized mobilization crucial in ensuring that aid is not a blanket solution but a targeted strategy attuned to the individual needs of affected workers.
The challenge now for other local governments is to take a leaf out of Iloilo’s book. The effectiveness of local government units (LGUs) in crisis management abroad doesn’t solely rest on their ability to respond to emergencies. It also depends on their preventive measures and the robustness of their contingency planning. Local governments need to establish clear protocols and partnerships with national agencies to streamline the processes for aiding OFWs in distress.
Furthermore, the reintegration plans, as evidenced by the comprehensive support system awaiting returning OFWs — including financial aid, training, and livelihood assistance through various national departments — show a well-rounded approach to the post-crisis phase. This balances immediate crisis response with long-term recovery strategies.
The ongoing situation in Lebanon should prompt all LGUs to reassess and reinforce their support systems for their OFWs. The Iloilo model demonstrates that local governments have both the opportunity and the obligation to act decisively. Their responsibilities extend far beyond their geographical boundaries, reaching wherever their OFW citizens might find themselves in need.
In an era where global crises can arise suddenly and escalate quickly, the readiness and responsiveness of local governments like Iloilo’s can make the difference between peril and protection.
