Manila: The Philippine government has implemented contingency measures to ensure the safety of Filipinos in the Middle East amid rising hostilities between Iran and Israel, as confirmed by Malaca±ang.

According to Philippines News Agency, this development follows Israel's initial strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure on Friday, which have led to days of retaliatory attacks between the two countries. In a briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro assured the public that relevant agencies are prepared should the situation escalate.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has confirmed that contingency plans are in place for the potential evacuation of Filipinos from Iran. In Israel, a team has been dispatched to monitor the condition of Filipino citizens. Castro noted that of the four Filipinos injured in the recent attacks, two have been discharged from the hospital, while the other two remain under medical care.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the DFA, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to act swiftly in assisting Filipinos affected by the conflict. The President emphasized that no one should be left behind.

Regarding the possibility of forced repatriation, the Palace indicated that the situation has not yet reached that threshold. However, the government assures that it is prepared to take action if necessary.