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OFWs in the Middle East Can Call Home for Free Amid Rising Tensions

Telcos open free lines to and from nine countries as safety concerns grow for Filipinos abroad.

  • Publish date: since 6 hours Reading time: 1 min read
OFWs in the Middle East Can Call Home for Free Amid Rising Tensions

If you have family in the Middle East, this one matters.

PLDT and Smart Communications are offering free international calls for Filipinos affected by escalating tensions in the region. The move comes after PLDT chair Manuel V. Pangilinan said the priority is to make it easier for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to reach their loved ones — and the other way around.

Free calls are now available for Filipinos in Iran, Israel, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia through the TinBo app using a Smart Virtual Number.

Families in PH Can Also Call for Free

It’s not just for OFWs abroad. PLDT, Smart and TNT subscribers in the Philippines can also call relatives in those same countries for free.

The offer runs until March 7, with a possible extension depending on how the situation develops.

24/7 Crisis Hotlines Open

Smart has activated a crisis hotline available 24/7 at +63288457799 to help connect families.

Filipinos can also reach the DMW-OWWA 1348 hotline through the TinBo app for assistance.

Why This Matters

Millions of Filipinos work across the Middle East in healthcare, construction, energy and domestic roles. With tensions rising, staying connected isn’t just about convenience — it’s about reassurance.

PLDT and Smart say they’ll continue monitoring the situation and coordinate with authorities to support Filipinos overseas.

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