Manila: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has underscored the safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and the broader Middle East region as a "paramount" concern following recent attacks. In a recent statement, President Marcos Jr. highlighted that he has directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to assess the situation and ensure the safety of Filipinos in the affected areas.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Department of Migrant Workers has reported an estimated 2.1 million Filipino workers residing in the Middle East as of 2024. This significant population underscores the importance of the measures being undertaken by the Philippine government to safeguard its citizens amidst growing regional tensions.
President Marcos Jr.'s proactive approach involves tasking the DFA and DMW with locating Filipino nationals in the areas impacted by the unrest and implementing strategies to secure their safety. The president's directive aims to mitigate risks faced by overseas Filipino workers and their families, reaffirming the government's commitment to their welfare.