Marcos to DMW, DFA: Ensure safety of Filipinos in Middle East

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday directed concerned agencies to ensure the safety of Filipinos in the Middle East after Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran.

“We have received reports of airstrikes that hit Iran. We are in the process of getting more information,” Marcos said in a statement posted on X.

“In the meantime, the safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and in the Middle East is paramount. I have instructed the DFA [Department of Foreign Affairs] and the DMW [Department of Migrant Workers] to take measures to determine their whereabouts in affected areas and to take immediate measures to ensure their safety,” he added.

The DFA stated that, at this time, no Filipinos have been affected or harmed by the conflict.

"The DFA has assured that embassies stand ready to assist our nationals. We continue to advise Filipinos to stay in their homes or safe places and refrain from going out to public places at this time," it said.

Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the Senate foreign relations committee, said his office is coordinating with the DFA and the DMW "in activating measures without delay, including the preparation and implementation of immediate repatriation plans for those who wish to return home."

"I also strongly advise our kababayans in the affected areas to maintain close coordination with the Philippine Embassies to report their status to ensure timely assistance if needed. In times like this, we must remain proactive, vigilant, and fully prepared to respond to the needs of Filipinos overseas who are on the brink of danger," Tulfo added. 

In the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines' diplomatic mission urged Filipinos "to remain calm and monitor official advisories and guidance from news and other reputable sources, including the UAE Government and the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General."

"In the event of any unusual incident, all Filipinos are cautioned to shelter in their homes and refrain from making unnecessary movements," it said.

In Tel Aviv, the Philippine Embassy advised Filipinos to remain indoors and to prepare to seek shelter.

There are at least 30,000 workers, mostly caregivers, in Israel, and more than 1,000 in Iran.

The Philippine Embassy in Kuwait issued a similar stay-at-home advisory.

"Please stay home or in a secure place. Avoid unnecessary trips or movements. Make sure your mobile phones and devices are always charged," the embassy said.

"Do not share or spread misinformation or fake news. Follow and check only official sources for accurate and reliable news and information."

US President Donald Trump said in a video posted on social media that the US started "major combat operations in Iran,” accusing Tehran of continuing to develop its nuclear program.

He claimed Iran is developing missiles that can reach the US as he called on the Iranian people to “take over your government."

In Abu Dhabi, the Philippine Embassy, together with the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, has urged Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates to remain calm and follow official guidance amid ongoing tensions in the region.

In an advisory released on Saturday, the diplomatic missions reminded Filipino residents to monitor updates from reputable sources, including the UAE government and official channels of the Philippine Embassy and Consulate General.

The advisory further cautioned that in the event of any unusual incidents, Filipinos should shelter in their homes and avoid unnecessary movements until authorities provide further instructions.

Officials emphasized the importance of staying informed through verified sources and following safety measures to ensure personal security during the evolving situation.—with a report from Jojo Dass/VBL/MCG, GMA Integrated News