The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is closely monitoring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Saudi Arabia after drone and ballistic missile attacks triggered explosions in Riyadh over the weekend.
The DMW said no Filipino workers were reported hurt or affected by the explosions on Friday night, September 18, and Saturday morning, September 19. The agency is coordinating with Migrant Workers Offices across Saudi Arabia, as well as the Philippine Embassy and consular posts, to monitor the situation and provide assistance if needed.
The attacks were claimed by Yemen’s Houthi movement, which said it targeted what it described as sensitive sites in Riyadh and facilities linked to Saudi oil giant Aramco in Yanbu. Saudi authorities said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched toward Riyadh.
The developments have heightened attention on the safety of Filipinos working in the kingdom, which remains a major destination for land-based Filipino migrant workers. DMW data cited in recent reports showed 147,021 land-based OFWs in Saudi Arabia from January to July 2026.
Despite the reported attacks, the DMW said Philippine officials in Saudi Arabia remain prepared to assist Filipinos who may require help. OFWs have been advised to remain vigilant and follow safety instructions and advisories issued by Saudi authorities.
Filipino workers needing immediate assistance may contact the nearest Migrant Workers Office or the DMW hotline. The agency can be reached at 1348 within Metro Manila, 02-1348 outside Metro Manila, or +632-1348 from overseas.
The DMW said it will continue monitoring developments and issue further updates as information becomes available, while Philippine posts in Saudi Arabia remain on standby to assist OFWs affected by any deterioration in the security situation.
