PHLPost suspends outbound mail to 35 countries amid Middle East conflict

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has temporarily suspended the acceptance of all international outbound mail items bound for 35 countries following airspace closures in key Middle East transit hubs.

In an advisory, PHLPost said the suspension covers all classes of mail, including letters, parcels, and Express Mail Service (EMS).

The move comes after the closure of regional airspace in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Doha, Qatar, amid recent military escalations in the Middle East. These locations serve as major transit points for international mail, disrupting primary air transport routes used by PHLPost and its airline partners.

PHLPost described the suspension as a precautionary measure to prevent significant service delays and to ensure the security of customers’ mail.

“We continue to prioritize the safety and security of mail items while closely coordinating with international postal administrations and customs authorities for the safe handling and movement of shipments,” the agency said.

The postal corporation added that it will provide updates once the acceptance of international outbound mail resumes.

Affected countries

The temporary suspension applies to the following 35 countries:

• Middle East & Africa
  Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Dammam, Jeddah, Riyadh), South Africa, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Israel, and Iran
   
• Europe
  Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland
   
• Asia
  Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
   
• South America
  Colombia and Brazil

PHLPost did not specify how long the suspension will remain in effect but said it is monitoring developments and will announce the gradual restoration and full resumption of services once conditions stabilize. —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News