The government of Philippine President Gloria Magapagal-Arroyo has withdrawn its forces from Iraq to save the life of a kidnapped Filipino. The gamble worked. The hostage, Mr. Angelo de la Cruz, was released unharmed this week and the nation -- like much of the world -- has rejoiced in his freedom. Unfortunately, however, it is feared that Manila's decision may prove shortsighted. Manila's readiness to protect one life may endanger many more, at home and abroad.

Mr. de la Cruz, a father of eight who comes from desperately poor circumstances, had gone to work as a truck driver for a Saudi firm working in Iraq. He is one of the more than 8 million Filipinos working overseas; about 1.4 million of them are in the Middle East. Those overseas workers are a vital part of the Philippine economy, sending home more than $7 billion annually.

Mr. de la Cruz was taken hostage July 7 by Islamic radicals who demanded that Manila withdraw its forces -- 51 soldiers and police officers that had been dispatched to help rebuild Iraq -- or they would kill him. Tapes of him being threatened by his kidnappers were broadcast on al-Jazeera television. After some conflicting reports, Manila announced it would withdraw its forces; a day after the last troops went home, Mr. de la Cruz was released, unharmed.