Manila: Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday called on Philippine authorities to proactively reach out to all Filipinos, including the undocumented, who may wish to leave Israel and Iran amid rising tensions between the two countries. Escudero asked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to lead efforts in locating Filipinos in conflict zones and activating contingency plans for their safe and immediate repatriation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero emphasized the need for the DFA and DMW to make extensive efforts in ensuring the safety of Filipinos in Israel and Iran, regardless of their legal status. "The DFA and DMW should go the extra mile in locating and reaching out to Filipinos in Israel and Iran to determine who wants to get out of the two countries now. It doesn't matter if they are legally staying or undocumented. What is important is that Filipinos who fear for their safety and want to go home are assisted without delay," he stated in a news release.

He noted that the government has established protocols and funding mechanisms for repatriating citizens caught in global crises and should act swiftly to assist those at risk. "Our government has years of experience in situations like these. We have funds for repatriating Filipinos during crises. What matters most is identifying where our citizens are and offering them safe passage home," Escudero said.

Escudero also urged the DMW to provide stress debriefing to repatriated Filipinos, especially those affected by the conflict. He highlighted the need for proper guidance and career options for those who choose to remain in the Philippines to help them recover from employment disruptions abroad. "It is imperative that repatriated Filipinos who wish to remain in the country are provided with the opportunities and the tools needed to start fresh," he added.

Based on records from the DFA's Rapid Response and Crisis Tracking system, there are approximately 30,742 Filipinos in Israel, 1,180 in Iran, and 1,598 in Iraq. The renewed conflict began after Israel launched strikes targeting Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure, leading to retaliatory missile and air attacks from Iran.