7 OFWs hurt in Saudi Arabia attacks; 3 in critical condition — DFA

Seven overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were wounded in attacks in Saudi Arabia, three of whom are in critical condition, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Monday.

Citing the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the DFA reported the injuries as it expressed its condolences to the families of those killed in the attacks.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and the DMW are coordinating with Saudi authorities to provide necessary medical care and assistance, while reaffirming the Philippines’ solidarity with the Kingdom in protecting its nationals and residents, including nearly one million Filipinos,” the DFA said in a statement.

“These attacks are a grave threat to regional peace and stability. The Philippine Government calls on all parties to cease hostilities and to pursue a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy,” it added.

The attacks occurred on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Oct. 10, reportedly killing at least 12 people and wounding more than 300 others.

The DFA also urged Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to follow advisories from local authorities and maintain contact with the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) earlier said 34 OFWs from Saudi Arabia arrived in the Philippines on Monday, while 65 more were expected to return on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026.

Two Philippine diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia had earlier advised Filipinos in the country to exercise “heightened caution” amid ongoing tensions involving Iran-aligned Houthi forces.

In an advisory issued on Oct. 9, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and alert to ensure their safety.— MCG, GMA News

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