DMW says Covid-19 cases abroad not alarming, advises health check

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) advised overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families to stay vigilant amid an uptick in Covid-19 cases in some parts of Southeast Asia.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac on Tuesday reminded OFWs to keep following health and safety protocols issued by their host countries.

A health advisory was issued by the DMW on Monday, following a Department of Health (DOH) update that Covid-19 cases are rising in several Southeast Asian nations, like Singapore, and Thailand, and Hong Kong.

He said the move is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the safety and well-being of Filipino migrant workers.

Like what the DOH said, Cacdac said there is no cause for alarm.

“We are just reiterating these health advisory reminders of the DOH, especially for our OFWs to take care of themselves, and to continue following their host countries’ health and safety protocols,” Cacdac said.

He said the government is closely monitoring developments across the Southeast Asian region, while it remains in close coordination with neighboring health authorities to ensure preparedness.

As of May 3, the Philippines has recorded an 87 percent drop in both Covid-19 cases and fatalities compared with the same period in 2024.

The DMW reminded OFWs to continue observing standard preventive measures such as wearing face masks in healthcare settings, staying home when unwell, practicing proper cough etiquette, regular handwashing, and seeking early medical consultation when symptoms appear.

Cacdac assured that DMW Migrant Workers Offices in affected countries are on standby to offer immediate support and assistance to OFWs who might face urgent health-related concerns.

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