02-07-2025
Philippines Lifts Ban on Returning OFWs to Israel
Good news for thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs): the Philippine government has lifted the deployment ban for returning workers heading back to Israel. This means Filipinos who went home for vacation can now resume their jobs abroad—especially those working as caregivers and hotel staff.
DFA lowers alert level amid improved security
The decision comes after the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) downgraded the alert level in Israel from Level 3 to Level 2 —shifting from voluntary repatriation to a restricted movement phase. According to the DFA, this update reflects 'positive developments' in Israel's security situation, following efforts to de-escalate regional tensions.
Travel still limited for new hires and tourists
While returning workers can go back, the government still bans newly hired OFWs, as well as tourists and pilgrims, from traveling to Israel. The restriction remains in place to ensure public safety and monitor the situation closely.
What Alert Level 2 means
Under Alert Level 2, Filipinos in Israel are urged to:
Level 2 is considered a 'restriction phase', while Level 3 signals voluntary repatriation. The most serious, Level 4, calls for mandatory evacuation.
