Cebu City braces for ill effects of Middle East crisis

Local

CEBU City is bracing for a possible spike in fuel prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Mayor Nestor Archival said the city is preparing for potential increases in the cost of goods and public transport fares while moving to assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the crisis.

In a press conference on Monday, March 2, Archival said the city government is monitoring developments overseas and preparing response mechanisms, particularly for Cebu City residents working in Gulf countries.

The mayor said he has formally sought coordination with national agencies to obtain an official status report on registered Cebu City residents currently employed or residing in affected areas.

“I will be the one to look at this and show you where this is going,” Archival said, referring to concerns about Cebuano OFWs whose flights may be cancelled or whose safety may be at risk.

He highlighted the critical role of OFWs in sustaining their families and boosting both local and national economies.

He also stressed that their protection and well-being remain a top priority amid international crises.

Archival said the city government is requesting key assistance from national authorities. This includes an official count of registered Cebu City residents working or living in affected Gulf countries.

It also covers updates on the security situation and risk assessments for Filipino nationals there. The requests seek details on any repatriation plans, contingency measures, or evacuation protocols in place or being prepared.

Finally, they ask for guidance on how Cebu City can coordinate with national efforts, such as providing local reintegration assistance, emergency financial or livelihood support, temporary shelter, psychological services, and data-sharing protocols in line with privacy regulations.

He also proposed a coordination meeting—virtual or in person—between representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Cebu City government “at the soonest possible time” to align response mechanisms.

On the local level, Archival said the city is prepared to activate an assistance desk for OFWs and their families seeking information.

The city also plans to coordinate with barangays to identify affected families, provide temporary assistance and referral services to returning workers, and collaborate with national agencies on reintegration programs.

“The city government of Cebu stands ready to work closely with the national government to ensure that our constituents abroad are protected and that their families here at home receive timely support and accurate information,” Archival said.

He added that the city also anticipates possible increases in fuel prices due to the conflict, which could trigger higher transport fares and commodity prices.

While no specific local interventions were announced as of Monday, the mayor said the city is preparing for potential economic impact.

The local preparations come after Israel and the United States reportedly launched attacks on Iran on Saturday, Feb. 28, raising fears of broader instability in the Middle East.(TGP)

Andi