Marcos orders swift aid for Filipinos in Israel, Iran

4 Pinoys hurt in airstrikes 18 OFWs repatriated

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS, RAYMUND ANTONIO, and AARON RECUENCO

President Marcos has directed concerned agencies to act swiftly in assisting Filipinos affected by the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, Malacañang said Monday, June 16.

In a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President's order to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is to send urgent aid to Filipinos in the warring countries.

"No one must be left behind—that is President Marcos' instruction," she added.

Castro said government agencies are already in crisis mode and on heightened alert to ensure the safety and well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the region.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez echoed Marcos's call for immediate assistance.

He stressed this as he urged the world not to let another full-blown crisis erupt from the continued exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran.

Romualdez said frontline government agencies are expected to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety and security of Filipinos. He reiterated that no Filipino should be left behind in a time of crisis.

He cited possible repatriation plans if the situation worsens.