Filipinos Traumatized Amid Israel-Iran Missile Attacks
Despite no Filipinos being physically harmed in Iran during Israel’s missile strikes, some have been deeply traumatized by the ongoing conflict, officials revealed. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that the Philippine embassies in both Iran and Israel remain vigilant, ready to provide aid to Filipinos caught in the crossfire.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega shared in an interview that “some Filipinos” in Israel are suffering emotional distress due to the airstrikes, even those who stayed indoors. To address this, the government is offering psychological counseling to those affected. This reassurance comes after at least eight Filipinos were injured following Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks on Israel, which began after Israel targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities last week.
Embassies Actively Assisting Filipinos in Conflict Zones
De Vega detailed that multiple Filipino families have been affected, including a Filipina and her Israeli partner whose home was destroyed. A residential building in Rehovot, near Tel Aviv, was also hit, and about a dozen Filipinos caught in a park experienced a sudden attack. Four injured Filipinos are currently hospitalized, with embassy teams actively monitoring their conditions. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported among Filipinos due to the escalating airstrikes.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Ambassador to Tel Aviv noted that many Filipinos have become accustomed to living amid violence. She said, “If you ask the old-timers here, they have already gotten used to the system and the way of life here. They have been through different wars that have happened here. It’s like they are battle-hardened, and they feel like they can keep working here.”
One Filipina caregiver in Israel remains critically ill in intensive care. The embassy has not released further updates on her condition. Meanwhile, a heartfelt Facebook post from a Filipina caregiver expressed gratitude toward the Philippine Embassy for their support during these difficult times. She wrote, “In this difficult situation… I just want to say THANK YOU… Maraming Salamat po sa inyong pagtawag, pagkumusta at pag monitor sa sitwasyon naming mga OFW dito sa ISRAEL.”
No Filipino Injuries Reported in Iran; Embassy Prepares Contingency
On the Iran front, no Filipinos have reported injuries or sought assistance, according to DFA officials. The Philippine Ambassador to Iran and embassy staff were recently summoned for briefings by Tehran’s Foreign Ministry. The embassy is also preparing contingency plans to help Filipinos cross into Turkmenistan if necessary.
Most of the 1,000 to 1,200 Filipinos in Iran are family members of Iranians, such as Filipinas married to locals and their children, rather than overseas workers. Embassy officials continue to coordinate with Filipino community leaders to ensure precautions are in place.
Government Ready to Assist and Repatriate Filipinos
De Vega assured the public that the Philippine government stands ready to assist and repatriate Filipinos from Israel. Evacuation plans may involve using neighboring Jordan as an exit point since Israeli airspace remains closed. He urged Filipinos to heed local authorities’ safety measures, noting that even the Iron Dome missile defense system may not stop every attack.
The embassy has maintained a repatriation program since October 2023, when violence flared between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Around 60 Filipinos have already expressed the desire to return home, and the number is expected to rise. The challenge lies in organizing safe transport amid ongoing airspace restrictions.
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