Tehran: The Philippine Embassy in Tehran is actively coordinating with diplomatic missions from Azerbaijan, Trkiye, and Turkmenistan to establish potential land evacuation routes for Filipinos, should the security situation in Iran deteriorate further. This proactive measure comes amidst escalating tensions following Israel's intensified air campaign against Iran, now in its fifth day since commencing on June 13.

According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Ambassador to Iran Roberto Manalo has engaged in discussions with the representatives from these neighboring countries as part of a contingency strategy by the embassy. He highlighted the readiness of the embassy to implement repatriation if directed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). "Nakausap ko na ang mga ambassadors ng mga bayan na iyan dito sa Iran and we will negotiate with them," Manalo stated in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas. He emphasized that any necessary evacuation over land would be executed under DFA's guidance.

While no Filipino nationals have been reported injured in the Israeli strikes, Ambassador Manalo described the situation in Iran as tense. "So far, safe pa naman kami dito. Of course, we are taking great precaution," he remarked, stressing the importance of maintaining safety and advising Filipinos to remain indoors amidst continued Israeli attacks.

The embassy has approximately 700 Filipinos registered in its database in Iran, predominantly individuals married to Iranian citizens. As of now, none have requested repatriation. Meanwhile, in Israel, one Filipino national is in critical condition following Iran's retaliatory strikes. Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola reported that eight Filipinos were injured during Iranian air raids, with six already having been discharged from hospital care.

Ambassador Mendiola also noted that 13 Filipinos in Israel have sought repatriation assistance. Currently, airspace over both Iran and Israel remains closed, complicating evacuation efforts.