President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the Philippine government is currently unable to carry out the repatriation of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) trapped in conflict-affected areas in the Middle East due to ongoing hostilities and airport closures.
In a press briefing on Tuesday morning, March 3, Marcos assured the public that the government is prioritizing the safety of Filipinos in the region amid escalating tensions linked to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
As of Tuesday morning, a total of 1,416 Filipinos have requested repatriation to the Philippines. The breakdown is as follows:
- Dubai – 586
- Israel – 297
- Abu Dhabi – 270
- Bahrain – 231
- Jordan – 22
- Iran – 10
Marcos explained that the volatile security situation has made evacuation flights impossible at this time.
“Ito ngayon ang problema. Ang problema, walang lumilipad na eroplano at 'yung mga airport ay tinatamaan na,” he said.
The President noted reports of attacks on various airports across the region, particularly in areas believed to be targets of retaliatory strikes by Iran.
“We have heard reports of attacks on different airports around the region, generally by Iran. 'Yung mga tumulong sa Amerika, 'yung mga bansang tumulong sa Amerika ay inaatake ngayon ng Iran sa retaliatory strikes. Kaya very fluid situation,” Marcos said.
He added that even if the Philippine government could deploy aircraft, operations would remain impossible.
“Kahit kaya nating kumuha ng eroplano at ipasok wala tayong magagawa dahil number one, the airports are closed. They are all no-fly zones. This is a combat area,” he said.
In the meantime, Marcos said Filipinos in Israel, considered the “most dangerous area,” have been advised to stay in secure locations and take shelter in bomb shelters when necessary
He disclosed that the government has coordinated with hotels located near designated shelters to provide accommodation for Filipinos, allowing them quicker access to safety in case of attacks.
“If you are in a safe place, kung malayo naman kayo, just stay put and be safe. And we will slowly try to find ways for those who want to be repatriated, we will find ways to get you out safely. And that is the key thing here,” he said.
The President stressed that ensuring the safety of Filipinos remains the government’s top priority.
“Pinakauna nating tinitingnan ay ligtas sila, hindi sila magkaproblema, ma-attack dahil sa misidentification,” Marcos said.
He reiterated his appeal for Filipinos to remain indoors and avoid high-risk areas. “Stay indoors, stay away from areas of danger,” he urged.
Marcos said Philippine embassies and foreign posts across the Middle East are on 24/7 alert status and have activated hotlines and other communication channels for Filipinos seeking assistance.
“For now, ang advice natin sa kanila, shelter in place and follow the host government’s advice,” the President said.
He emphasized that while the government continues to explore safe options for repatriation, conditions on the ground remain too dangerous for evacuation operations at this time.
