Alert News No. 005-03
24 March 2003

Coalition Forces Near Saudi-Kuwait Border Rely on Filipino OFWs for Water Supply

Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas F. Ople received a report from Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Bahnarim Guinomla that Filipino workers in the Middle East continue to bravely perform their work despite risk coming from the outbreak of war.

Guinomla cited as example a group of six Filipino truck drivers assigned to bring fresh water from Makkah in Saudi Arabia to Kuwait for use by coalition forces stationed near the Saudi-Kuwait border.

The six Filipinos, most of who work for Al-Humayen Transport Company, said they are very much aware of the risks attached to their work. They are committed, however, to fulfilling their job.

They told embassy officials that although they are concerned about reports of missile strikes into Kuwait, they feel it is their obligation to continue on with their work.

The coalition forces depend on the Filipino truckers for their water, a valuable commodity in the arid desert. They also deliver water and other essential commodities to outlets in Saudi Arabia thus ensuring a steady supply of bottled water to all nationals, including foreign workers.

"Our overseas Filipino workers in war-affected countries in the Middle East have become a source of inspiration to others because of their valor and dedication to their jobs," Ople said.

Secretary Ople instructed all Philippine embassies in the Middle East to maintain close contact with members of the Filipino community and their employers. He also instructed Ambassador Guinomla to request the transport companies to look after the safety of the six Filipino delivery truck drivers.

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