MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued an urgent directive to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to ensure the safety and security of Filipinos across the Middle East.
Presidential Directive:
Following reports of U.S. and Israeli airstrikes hitting Iran, President Marcos emphasized that the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remains the government’s top priority.
- Tracking & Location: The DFA and DMW have been instructed to immediately determine the whereabouts of Filipinos in the affected regions.
- Immediate Measures: The agencies are ordered to take “immediate measures” to safeguard citizens as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
Regional Context:
The presidential order comes as the conflict in the Middle East widens. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran, citing high tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program. In response, Iran reportedly launched drones and missiles toward Israel.
Government Response:
President Marcos confirmed that the administration is currently in the process of gathering more information about the situation on the ground. “The safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and in the Middle East is paramount,” Marcos stated on his official social media accounts. Malacañang has assured the public that authorities are monitoring the developments around the clock to coordinate possible repatriation or emergency assistance if necessary.