NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Marcos Warns Of Prolonged Middle East Conflict, Says 1,400 OFWs Want Repatriation
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the nation from Malacañang on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, acknowledging both the risks on the ground and the growing concern for overseas Filipino workers in the region.
During the press briefing, Marcos revealed that more than 1,400 OFWs have expressed their intention to be repatriated as the conflict intensifies. However, he admitted that mounting an immediate evacuation is not as simple as it sounds.
The President described the situation as dangerous, noting that commercial airlines could be attacked by mistake given that the area is now considered a war zone. He emphasized that information coming in remains limited, making every decision more complicated.
For now, Filipinos in affected areas are being advised to stay indoors and avoid places considered high risk. Based on current information, the conflict could last four to five weeks, though the President said he hopes it ends sooner.
Back in the Philippines, the government is also preparing for the possible economic impact, particularly on fuel prices. Marcos announced that a targeted fuel subsidy will be rolled out for sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and fisherfolk once oil prices breach 80 dollars per barrel.
He also plans to consult with leaders of both houses of Congress to seek authority to reduce excise taxes on fuel products should Dubai crude reach the same threshold.
In anticipation of potential supply disruptions, the President has directed government offices to implement energy saving measures.
As uncertainty continues overseas, the administration’s focus remains clear, protect Filipino workers, manage economic fallout, and carefully navigate decisions in what Marcos described as an increasingly volatile war zone.
During the press briefing, Marcos revealed that more than 1,400 OFWs have expressed their intention to be repatriated as the conflict intensifies. However, he admitted that mounting an immediate evacuation is not as simple as it sounds.
The President described the situation as dangerous, noting that commercial airlines could be attacked by mistake given that the area is now considered a war zone. He emphasized that information coming in remains limited, making every decision more complicated.
For now, Filipinos in affected areas are being advised to stay indoors and avoid places considered high risk. Based on current information, the conflict could last four to five weeks, though the President said he hopes it ends sooner.
Back in the Philippines, the government is also preparing for the possible economic impact, particularly on fuel prices. Marcos announced that a targeted fuel subsidy will be rolled out for sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and fisherfolk once oil prices breach 80 dollars per barrel.
He also plans to consult with leaders of both houses of Congress to seek authority to reduce excise taxes on fuel products should Dubai crude reach the same threshold.
In anticipation of potential supply disruptions, the President has directed government offices to implement energy saving measures.
As uncertainty continues overseas, the administration’s focus remains clear, protect Filipino workers, manage economic fallout, and carefully navigate decisions in what Marcos described as an increasingly volatile war zone.
Mar 3, 2026
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