Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has urged the government to assist Filipinos—documented or not—who wish to return home from Israel and Iran amid rising tensions between the two countries.
Escudero called on the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to lead efforts in locating and assisting Filipinos who want to leave.
“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, noting the government has contingency plans and funds in place for repatriations due to conflicts or disasters.
The Senate leader stressed the importance of immediately identifying at-risk individuals and offering them safe passage home. Once repatriated, he said those directly affected should undergo stress debriefing and be given career support if they choose to stay in the Philippines.
“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,” said Escudero.
Tensions escalated last week after Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. Iran responded with missile and air attacks on Israel, where around 50,000 Filipinos live. Another 2,000 Filipinos are estimated to be in Iran, many married to locals.IMT
