The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has urged the public, particularly Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), to be cautious of employment offers abroad following reports that two Filipinos have become involved as foreign mercenaries in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said investigations revealed that one Filipino, identified as Raymond Gumangan from Alcala, Pangasinan, traveled to Moscow under the pretense of legitimate employment but was later deployed in the conflict. Video footage released by Ukrainian authorities shows Gumangan as a prisoner of war.

Previously, another Filipino, identified only as John Patrick, was reported killed during hostilities in Ukraine, with investigations still ongoing.

Trinidad added that the AFP will coordinate with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to develop measures to prevent the possible recruitment of Filipinos into foreign wars.

Authorities emphasized the need for vigilance against fraudulent or misleading job offers abroad, highlighting the serious risks of involvement in armed conflicts.