Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to take preemptive measures to ensure the safety and security of Filipino workers in Taiwan. China’s recent military exercises near Taiwan caused tensions to increase in the region, prompting Go to call on the DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs, and other concerned agencies to closely monitor the situation and provide assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who may be affected. There are approximately 150,000 OFWs in Taiwan that need protection during these times of heightened tension. Go urged the government to create a comprehensive plan to safeguard OFWs, including alternative livelihoods and repatriation plans if necessary. China’s military display was reportedly in response to Taiwan’s leader, Tsai Ing-wen, meeting with the United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
