The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised Alert Level 3 in Israel and Iran due to the ongoing conflict between the two countries, and is urging overseas Filipinos (OFs) in both areas to return to the Philippines immediately.
“Travel by Filipinos to both these countries is highly discouraged, due to the ongoing crisis and the actual closure of their airspace and seaports,” the DFA said on Friday.
The agency advised Filipinos who wish to be repatriated to coordinate with the nearest Philippine Embassy for assistance. “Should Overseas Filipinos (OFs) in these countries wish to be voluntarily repatriated through the aid of the Philippine Government, they are advised to coordinate with their respective Philippine Embassies,” it added.
The alert was raised as tensions between Israel and Iran entered their seventh day, following deadly retaliatory attacks sparked by Israel’s military operations.
The DFA said the alert levels will be reviewed regularly based on developments in the affected areas. “The Department hopes that parties will cease hostilities soon,” it said.
Filipinos in Israel may contact the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv at +972 54 466 1188 or email telaviv.pe@dfa.gov.ph. Those in Iran can reach the Philippine Embassy in Tehran through its 24/7 emergency hotline at +989 12 213 6801 or email tehran.pe@dfa.gov.ph.