Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has reiterated the urgency of providing repatriation support and eventually, reintegration plans for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning from Israel and Lebanon, in the light of escalating tensions in the region.

Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, said a comprehensive repatriation and reintegration program should be in place to cater to the varying needs of returning OFWs.

"Unang una, siguraduhin natin ang kanilang kaligtasan. Tulungan dapat silang makalikas sa ligtas na lugar at maiuwi sa kanilang mga pamilya dito. Pagkatapos ay dapat mayroon tayong handa at maayos na sistema ng suporta na makakapagbigay ng job counseling, skills retraining, at mga serbisyo sa mental health, at iba pa. It's about empowering our OFWs to restart their lives here with dignity and hope," Go remarked.

"Mahirap ang pinagdaanan nila doon. Nawalan na sila ng trabaho, may trauma pa yan dahil sa kaguluhan na naranasan nila. Ibigay dapat sa kanila ang sapat na suporta at pag-aaruga pag-uwi nila sa kanilang inang bayan upang makabangon muli," he stressed.

Once the OFWs return home, Go called on the government to ensure that reintegration programs are made readily available for them to overcome the trauma they experienced and be able to recover.

"Our kababayans are coming home under distressing circumstances. It is the government's responsibility to extend all possible support to these modern-day heroes," said Go.

"Aside from possible employment opportunities, the government must be ready to provide assistance for their physical and psychological well-being, temporary housing if needed, and the welfare of their families as well," he added.

The Philippine government has approved voluntary repatriation for Filipinos in Lebanon amid brewing tension in the region while the situation in Israel is particularly concerning, with Israel intensifying its bombings in Gaza. With this, Go emphasized the need for both the government and OFWs to take proactive steps to ensure their safety.

The senator urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and other relevant agencies to closely monitor the situation and provide timely updates to OFWs and their families.