President Marcos Orders Swift Aid Amid Middle East Tensions
President Marcos has instructed key government agencies to swiftly provide assistance to Filipinos affected by the escalating Middle East tensions. The directive focuses on immediate support to Filipinos caught in the conflict between Israel and Iran, Malacañang officials confirmed on June 16.
During a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized the urgency of the President’s order to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). “Ang direktiba ng Pangulo sa DFA, DMW, at OWWA ay mabilisang tulong sa ating mga kababayan,” she said. “No one is left behind— yun ang tagubilin ng Pangulo.”
Government on High Alert for Filipino Safety
Castro explained that government agencies are now operating in “crisis mode” and remain on heightened alert to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the region. Contingency plans for repatriation are ready, though officials have not deemed it necessary yet. “Hindi pa po dumarating sa ganoong punto. Pero ready po ang ating mga ahensya kung kinakailangan po ng repatriation,” she added.
DFA Deploys Team to Israel to Assess Filipinos’ Situation
The DFA has sent a team to Israel to evaluate conditions and assist Filipinos caught in the conflict zone. Four Filipinos have sustained injuries amid the clashes. “Dalawa na po sa kanila ang nailabas at dalawa naman po ay nananatili sa pagamutan at ipinagdarasal natin na mabilis nilang paggaling,” Castro reported.
Authorities have also prepared contingency measures for Filipinos in Iran, anticipating potential escalation depending on the developments in the region.
24/7 Help Desks Launched for Immediate Assistance
To ensure timely communication and aid, the government activated multiple help desks. The DMW and OWWA can be reached via hotline 1348 within the Philippines or +6321348 for calls from abroad. “Nag-set po ng 24/7 Middle East helpdesk for the OWWAs para po mas mabilis ang pagtugon sa kanilang mga pangangailangan,” Castro said.
Context: Rising Conflicts Between Israel and Iran
The recent flare-up in the Middle East began when Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and military sites, causing massive explosions in Tehran. Iran retaliated by firing missiles at several Israeli cities, leading to casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure.
The Philippine government remains vigilant to protect its citizens abroad and stands ready to act swiftly as the situation unfolds.
For more news and updates on Middle East tensions, visit Filipinokami.com.