President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that there is currently no need for the mandatory repatriation of Filipinos in Israel and Iran, despite the escalating conflict in the region.
“No, not yet,” Marcos said in a media briefing. “We generally leave it to each individual or each family to decide for themselves whether or not they feel safe or whether or not they would like to be evacuated.”
The President emphasized that the Philippine government is allowing overseas Filipinos to make their own decisions based on their personal circumstances and sense of security.
While a full-scale evacuation has not yet been ordered, the government assured the public that it is closely monitoring developments and remains ready to act swiftly should the situation deteriorate further.
“Of course, we are watching our nationals, both in Israel and in Iran. In fact, we have already contacted all our nationals and asked them if they want to be evacuated,” Marcos said.
“Some have asked to be evacuated out of Israel, some now in Iran. But now, some are saying that they are afraid and need help,” he added.
He acknowledged the logistical challenges posed by the conflict, particularly the closure of several airports due to the ongoing hostilities.
“We are looking for a route where they can be evacuated. But we have been able to do that,” the President noted.
To assist in the evacuation efforts, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac is already en route to Jordan to coordinate the safe movement of Filipinos from both Israel and Iran.
As of this writing, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) continue to extend support to affected Filipinos, ensuring they are informed and protected amid the growing unrest in the Middle East.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Israel, 150 Filipinos are requesting immediate repatriation due to the escalating tensions between the two countries.
