War has always shaped history and, while distant, the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves that reached Philippine shores. With a fragile ceasefire now in place, questions arise: What does it mean for the Philippines? And, more urgently, for the thousands of Filipinos working overseas?

On DAILY TRIBUNE’s Usapang OFW, hosts John Dodson, Raffy Ayeng and Chingbee Fernandez unpacked the war’s impact on Filipinos. While the Philippines has no direct stake in the conflict, its economic and emotional effects are very real — from rocketing fuel prices to fears for the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

What has the government done?

So far, the government has offered voluntary repatriation for affected OFWs. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, 127 Filipinos in Israel were displaced, with 118 resettled and 30 heading home. Critics argue the response is too slow and lacks a long-term plan.

“Our OFWs aren’t asking just for financial aid — they’re asking for jobs,” Fernandez said. “If they want to return, the government should be ready to help. Budget limitations shouldn’t cause hesitation.”

The U.S. strikes, the world reacts

The turning point came when US President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities after being asked by Israel to help defuse the tensions.

“Clear the airspace for me,” Trump said — then missiles flew. It may seem cinematic, but this isn’t fiction.

“This isn’t a movie,” the program hosts said. “It wounds. It destroys. And it claims real lives.”

Despite controversy over how much the strikes actually accomplished, Trump hailed the mission a success. A ceasefire followed, covering Iran, Israel and Tehran-backed groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

Ceasefire — but for how long?

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu called it a “historic victory,” but warned that any violation would be met with force. For now, tensions remain high.

“War is ugly,” Ayeng said.

Asked if terrorist groups could be trusted to keep ceasefires, Fernandez replied: “Cross the bridge when you get there. Give them a chance — because they’re human, too. If they break that trust, then we act.”

Ripple effects on Philippines

The truce offered some economic relief. The Philippine peso briefly strengthened — from P57.75 to P57.03 against the dollar. But analysts caution this may be short-lived if fighting resumes or global oil prices spike.

Meanwhile, Filipinos continue to bear the psychological toll. Rising global tensions add stress to an already burdened overseas workforce.

Call for clearer policy

The Usapang OFW panelists made one thing clear: The Philippines must do more than offer repatriation. It needs a firm, proactive plan for OFWs’ welfare — before conflicts erupt.

“Now is the time to act — for peace, for diplomacy, and most of all, for our OFWs,” they concluded.

Because while the war may be thousands of miles away, for many Filipinos the fear hits close to home.