Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday called on Philippine government agencies to urgently assist Filipinos in Israel and Iran who wish to return home amid the escalating conflict between the two countries.
“The DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) should go the extra mile in locating and reaching out to Filipinos in Israel and Iran to determine who wants to get out of the two countries now,” he said.
Escudero pointed out that government contingency plans already exist to handle crises involving overseas Filipinos in situations such as natural disasters or armed conflict.
“It doesn’t matter if they are legally staying or undocumented. What is important is that Filipinos who fear for their safety and want to go home are assisted without delay,” he said.
The Senate chief noted the government has a long experience in managing the repatriation of citizens from areas affected by unrest and has funds allocated for such operations.
He also said that once the repatriation is completed, the DMW should provide stress debriefing for those affected, particularly individuals directly impacted by the violence.
Escudero added that it is crucial for the government to help returning Filipinos who choose to stay in the country to find career opportunities and rebuild their lives.
“It is imperative that repatriated Filipinos who wish to remain in the country are provided with the opportunities and the tools needed to start fresh,” he said.
The conflict escalated last week when Israel launched attacks targeting Iran’s nuclear and military facilities in what it said was an effort to stop Tehran from building an atomic bomb.
Iran retaliated by firing missiles and carrying out air strikes against Israel, heightening tensions in the region.
An estimated 50,000 Filipinos currently reside in Israel, according to government data.
The DFA also reported that about 2,000 Filipinos are living in Iran, with some married to Iranian nationals.
