Doha: Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac has assured the safety of Filipinos in Qatar after an explosion occurred near the Philippine Embassy in Doha.

According to Philippines News Agency, the explosion took place just a few hundred meters from the embassy as Cacdac was traveling to Qatar, coinciding with an Israeli strike targeting Hamas in Doha.

Cacdac stated that the explosion site was approximately 300 to 400 meters away from the embassy and confirmed that there were no injuries or property damage. "I personally went to the area and saw the damage, but Ambassador (Mardomel Celo) Melicor assured us that our fellow Filipinos are doing well," he said.

Expressing gratitude for the swift response, Cacdac commended Philippine officials, led by Ambassador Melicor and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) under Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, for their efforts in securing the safety of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) staff in Qatar. Cacdac also mentioned that Undersecretary Jainal Rasul Jr. had arrived in Doha ahead of the DMW delegation.

During a meeting with the Filipino community in Doha, Cacdac reassured them of their safety and emphasized the government's commitment to their protection. He noted the positive spirits among the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and expressed hope for lasting peace and tranquility.

Cacdac highlighted the importance of the embassy's reassurances and the government's active presence in calming the concerns of the Filipino community in Doha. He observed that the incident not only tested, but also showcased the resilience and unity of Filipinos abroad.

The DMW remains in close coordination with the DFA, the Embassy, and Qatari authorities to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of over 250,000 Filipinos residing in Qatar. "We continue to coordinate to ensure the safety of every Filipino. Our hope and prayers remain for calm and peace, and for the continued safety of our compatriots in Qatar," Cacdac emphasized.