PH Embassy urges Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to stay cautious amid Middle East attacks

The Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia on Monday urged Filipinos to exercise caution when traveling outdoors and to avoid areas near critical and security infrastructure amid the continuing attacks in the Middle East.

“The Embassy reminds Filipino nationals residing in the Eastern Province to exercise heightened caution while traveling outdoors," it said in a social media post.

"It is advisable to avoid unnecessary travel to areas with critical and security infrastructure,” the Embassy added.

It also encouraged Filipinos to stay informed by regularly monitoring updates and announcements from authorities, including the Embassy’s official social media channels.

The Embassy further advised Filipinos to refrain from sharing photos or videos of restricted areas in Saudi Arabia on social media, including military and government buildings and facilities, as doing so may have serious legal consequences.

The advisory comes amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, the Department of Migrant Workers said the following alert levels are in place:

• Iraq and Syria remain under Alert Level 4
• Lebanon — Alert Level 3
• United Arab Emirates — Alert Level 2 (raised from 1)
• Bahrain — Alert Level 2
• Kuwait — Alert Level 2
• Qatar — Alert Level 2
• Saudi Arabia — Alert Level 2
• Israel — Alert Level 2
• Jordan — Alert Level 1
• Oman — No alert level

Based on the DMW's alert levels, Alert Level 4 represents the highest risk, triggering mandatory evacuation and repatriation orders.

Alert Level 3 reflects high risk, during which voluntary repatriation is recommended for Filipinos who wish to leave.

Alert Level 2, on the other hand, indicates moderate risk, prompting heightened caution, restrictions on non-essential travel, and preparation for possible evacuation.

Alert Level 1 signals a low-risk situation, where Filipinos are advised to stay vigilant but can continue normal activities.

Countries with no alert level are considered stable.

Filipinos in need of assistance may contact the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) emergency hotlines: Metro Manila — 1348; Regional — 02-1348; via Viber — +63-915-079-5005 (Globe), +63-969-169-7068 (Smart), and +63-966-473-9543 (Globe).—MCG, GMA Integrated News