AFP on Standby to Help Repatriate Pinoys from Israel & Iran
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has confirmed it is ready to assist with the possible repatriation of Filipinos from Israel and Iran as tensions continue in the region.
Monitoring Situation Closely
AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla said on Tuesday that the military is closely monitoring developments related to the Iran-Israel conflict. She noted that while the situation is evolving, the AFP is prepared to mobilize immediately if ordered.
'Should the need arise, the AFP stands ready to assist as directed,' Padilla said during a press briefing at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
Coordination with Government Agencies
Padilla stressed that the military will work closely with other government agencies once President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issues the official directive for evacuation.
'With the President at the helm, we are ready to act swiftly and in sync with other agencies,' she said. 'All of our assets are ready for deployment depending on the mandate.'
Voluntary Repatriation in Progress
The Philippine government is currently processing around 200 voluntary repatriations. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac is in Jordan to assist Filipinos traveling home from nearby conflict zones.
President Marcos Jr. earlier reiterated that repatriation from Israel and Iran remains voluntary at this stage.
Thousands of Filipinos in Affected Regions
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), there are approximately 30,000 overseas Filipino workers in Israel and around 1,180 in Iran, most of whom are married to Iranian nationals.
The AFP has a history of assisting in the evacuation of Filipinos during international crises and stands ready to do so again, should the situation escalate.
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