President Marcos continues to monitor Middle East tension – Palace

Philippine News Agency

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro (File photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict, a Malacañang official said Monday.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President has directed concerned government agencies to provide all necessary assistance to Filipinos affected by the escalating tension since it began on Feb. 28.

“Iginiit ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. sa mga ahensiya na ipagpatuloy at paigtingin pa ang pagmo-monitor sa kalagayan ng mga Pilipino sa mga apektadong lugar (President Marcos Jr. urged agencies to continue and intensify monitoring of the situation of Filipinos in affected areas),” she said.

Castro said the President reiterated his directive to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and other relevant agencies to closely monitor the situation and ensure that government assistance reaches affected Filipinos to guarantee their safety.

The Palace official also assured that government agencies remain prepared for the possible repatriation of overseas Filipinos once Middle East airspace reopens.

“Iyan ang pangako at nais ni Pangulong Marcos (That is the promise and desire of President Marcos),” Castro said.

Filipinos in need of assistance may contact the emergency hotlines of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to report their concerns and request support, she said.

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) emergency hotlines are for Metro Manila -1348, for Regional -02-1348, via Viber +63-915-079-5005 (Globe), +63-969-169-7068 (Smart), +63-966-473-9543 (Globe).