AFP ready for humanitarian, evacuation ops amid Middle East conflict

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is ready to assist in humanitarian and evacuation operations following the recent military escalation in the Middle East, the Department of National Defense (DND) said Sunday.

In a statement Sunday, DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said the Defense Dept. is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East in coordination with the Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Dept. of Migrant Workers, and other concerned agencies.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines stands ready to assist in humanitarian and evacuation operations, if directed,” Andolong said.

“The DND and the AFP are ready to respond to probable contingencies, including possible repatriation support and crisis response coordination of Filipinos in affected countries should conditions warrant further action,” he added.

Andolong also urged the public to be vigilant against disinformation and condemned those who raise unnecessary panic.

He said there is no credible direct threat to the Philippines or to Filipinos and other foreigners in the country.

In a separate statement, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margaret Padilla affirmed the military is ready to provide support under the orders of the national government.

Padilla also urged the public to remain calm, discerning, and rely on official sources for accurate information. 

"The spread of unverified reports and disinformation only creates unnecessary concern," Padilla said.

On Saturday, the United States and Israel launched airstrikes in Iran, as US President Donald Trump accused Iran of continuing to develop its nuclear program.

Israel announced that it has launched another wave of strikes in Iran on Sunday, after the killing of the Iranian supreme leader.

The Department of Migrant Workers earlier reported that Filipinos have so far remained safe after the United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News