The world held its breath.
Airstrikes hit Iran.
Missiles lit up the night sky.
And once again, tension in the Middle East escalated — fast.
On Saturday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wasted no time.
“The safety of Filipino citizens is paramount,” he said.
And with that, the government moved.
“We Are Getting More Information”
In a statement posted on X, Marcos confirmed that reports of airstrikes had reached Manila.
“We are in the process of getting more information,” he said.
But even before the full picture became clear, he issued firm instructions.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) were directed to immediately locate Filipinos in affected areas — and take urgent steps to ensure their safety.
No delays.
No waiting.
Because when conflict breaks out, every minute matters.
So Far, No Filipinos Hurt
The DFA assured the public that, as of now, no Filipinos have been reported harmed by the conflict.
Embassies across the region are on alert.
They stand ready to assist.
Filipinos in affected areas have been strongly advised to stay indoors, avoid public places, and monitor official announcements.
In times like this, caution saves lives.
Senate Calls for Immediate Repatriation Plans
Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the Senate foreign relations committee, said his office is closely coordinating with the DFA and DMW.
Measures are being activated without delay.
This includes preparing immediate repatriation plans for Filipinos who wish to return home.
“In times like this, we must remain proactive, vigilant, and fully prepared,” Tulfo said.
He urged Filipinos abroad to stay in constant contact with Philippine embassies and report their status.
Because when danger looms, communication is everything.
Urgent Advisories Across the Region
In the United Arab Emirates, the Philippine diplomatic mission called for calm — but emphasized vigilance.
Stay home.
Avoid unnecessary movement.
Monitor official advisories.
In Tel Aviv, Filipinos were advised to remain indoors and be ready to seek shelter if necessary.
In Kuwait, the message was just as urgent:
Stay home.
Stay in a secure place.
Keep mobile phones fully charged.
And above all — do not spread misinformation.
“Follow only official sources,” the embassy reminded.
Thousands of Filipinos in Affected Areas
The numbers are significant.
At least 30,000 Filipino workers — mostly caregivers — are in Israel.
More than 1,000 are in Iran.
Behind each number is a family.
A breadwinner.
A loved one waiting back home.
And tonight, many are watching the news with fear.
A Region on Edge
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced in a video that the United States had begun “major combat operations in Iran.”
He accused Tehran of continuing to develop its nuclear program and claimed Iran is building missiles capable of reaching the US.
His message to the Iranian people was blunt:
“Take over your government.”
The situation remains fluid.
Unpredictable.
Tense.
The Priority: Filipino Lives
As global powers trade strikes and warnings, one message from Manila is clear:
Filipino lives come first.
The government says it is monitoring every development.
Embassies are on standby.
Repatriation plans are being prepared.
Communication lines are open.
For thousands of Filipinos in the Middle East, the hope is simple —
Safety.
Protection.
And, if needed, a safe journey home.
