MANILA, Philippines — Sorsogon Governor Chiz Escudero made his statement regarding taking in Ukrainians who are fleeing their home country. Escudero stressed that the Philippines must make a stance against the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
“As we bring Filipinos home, we can also open our doors to Ukrainians who need refuge,” he said. Escudero likens this act to what former president Manuel Quezon did for the Jews during the Holocaust. Back in 1940, Quezon opened the Philippine border to house 10,000 Jewish refugees.
Escudero stated that as a democratic country that has historically fought for its freedom, it is important for the Philippines to position itself alongside amiable nations. He vocalized, “the Philippines should help promote peace and the right to self-determination of every country in every part of the world.”
The governor called out to Filipinos who are hesitant to come back to the Philippines because of their jobs in Ukraine. Escudero advised that the situation can worsen anytime, and Filipinos must consider their families. He concluded by lobbying them to coordinate with the Department of Foreign Affairs for their safe departure.
According to the DFA’s latest update, 39 Filipinos are set to come back home to the country.
Francis “Chiz” Escudero is seeking to earn a Senate seat in the upcoming May 2022 national elections.