PBBM Assures Safety Of OFWs Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions; Repatriation Plans Ready
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the nation on Sunday, 1 March 2026, that no Filipinos have been reported killed or injured following the massive military exchange between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
In a recorded video message released at 9:00 a.m. (PH Time), the President sought to calm the anxieties of the families of the over 2.4 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) currently stationed across West Asia.
"Nais kong i-report sa ating mga kababayan na sa ngayon... wala po tayong natatanggap na report na may casualty na Pilipino. Wala pong Pilipino ang namatay, wala pong Pilipino ang nasaktan," the President stated.
Current Status of OFWs
Despite reports of explosions and air-raid sirens in Gulf countries like Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, the Philippine government confirmed that Filipino communities have successfully reached safety.
Bomb Shelters: The President noted that many OFWs have already moved to designated bomb shelters.
Avoidance of High-Risk Zones: Under government advice, Filipinos are keeping a safe distance from American military bases, which have been primary targets for Iranian retaliatory strikes.
Embassy Alert: Philippine embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv, along with all diplomatic posts in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) states, remain on Full Alert.
Repatriation and Contingency Plans
While the President admitted his assessment that the conflict "will continue," he emphasised that the government is fully prepared for a large-scale evacuation if the situation deteriorates.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of National Defense (DND) have confirmed:
Armed Forces on Standby: The AFP is ready to deploy air and naval assets for humanitarian and evacuation operations.
Repatriation Funding: Contingency funds are in place to facilitate the immediate return of any Filipino who wishes to be repatriated or those in high-risk zones.
Flight Disruptions: The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported that at least 23 flights to and from the Middle East have been cancelled or diverted. The DMW is currently assisting affected travellers at NAIA.
Monitoring and Vigilance
President Marcos Jr. has directed the DFA and DMW to maintain 24/7 communication with Filipino community leaders on the ground. He also urged the public to be wary of disinformation, specifically addressing unverified reports of casualties that have surfaced on social media.
"At present, we continue to monitor the situation to ensure that our fellow Filipinos in the Middle East are in good condition," Marcos added.
