24-06-2025
'Laban OFW': How Filipinos in the Middle East Stay Strong
The Middle East is a major destination for Filipino workers, as countries in the region often prefer to hire Filipinos for their dedication and professionalism. However, it's no secret that the Middle East is also frequently a battleground for wars and conflicts—leaving many OFWs caught in the middle of terrifying violence. In light of this, we've compiled real-life accounts from OFWs who have shown incredible strength and solidarity during traumatic wartime experiences.
'I saw my employers shot at... I had only seconds to act,' recalls Irene Repuela Torres, a Filipino caregiver in southern Israel. In October 2023, she sheltered her elderly charges in a reinforced 'mamád' during a Hamas attack. Gunfire pounded outside for 35 hours as she stayed calm, comforting her patients and risking her life to keep them safe.
Despite hunger and fear, Irene reminded herself: 'If today is my last day, I can accept that,' channeling the Filipino spirit of malasakit and selfless care.
Standing Strong at Work: Ricasol Garcia's Silent Courage
Nearby in Tel Aviv, hotel staffer Ricasol Garcia admits she was terrified, but duty came first. 'Our main concern was the guests,' she shared. When alarms sounded, she calmly escorted visitors to the basement shelter before thinking of her own safety.
Even as reports of fellow Filipinos' deaths circulated, Ricasol stayed at her post. 'You cry, you fear—you have to be brave,' she said, highlighting the quiet heroism of OFWs working through crisis.
Bravery and Loss: Teresita Dagdag's Tough Decision
Teresita Dagdag, a caregiver in Israel for 19 years, stayed even when bomb sirens sounded, because her patient was deaf. 'She couldn't hear the bombs... so I became her eyes, ears, hands, and feet,' Teresita told officials.
When her employer tragically died, Teresita finally returned home—but only after ensuring her patient's last days were dignified. Her story spotlights a Filipino trait: loyalty, even under fire.
Facing the Unknown: Filipinos Stuck in Iran Too
Thousands of OFWs in Israel and Iran—about 30,000 in Israel, 1,180 in Iran—have faced similar anxieties. When missiles flew, many reached out for help. The Philippine government stepped in, offering guidance, shelters, and flights home.
Bayanihan in Action: Community Solidarity
In the chaos, OFWs rallied together. One caregiver grouped Filipinos via messaging chats to share safety updates and call for embassy help. Another Filipino embassy in Tel Aviv arranged emergency assistance—including for families of those injured or taken hostage.
This community-driven support kept morale alive when danger hit.
Why Their Stories Matter
These aren't just tales of survival. They're proof of the Filipino core values: courage, compassion, and self-sacrifice. Whether guiding elderly patients to safety or standing firm at work, OFWs show how overseas Filipinos keep fighting for their families—literally.
These stories—of bravery, heartbreak, and hope—are the quiet victories that make Filipinos in crisis truly shine. They remind us: no matter where you are, 'laban' and Philippines stay close to the heart.
