DFA tells Pinoys in Israel to stay home amid strikes
The Philippine Embassy in Israel on Saturday urged Filipinos in the Jewish state to remain indoors and be prepared to take shelter after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate by firing drones and missiles toward Israel.
The safety advisory was issued as the Israeli government placed the entire country under “essential activity” status due to heightened security threats.
Elevated security
The embassy said the measure was based on a directive from the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command.
Under the “essential activity” status, all educational institutions are closed, public gatherings are prohibited and work is suspended except for sectors providing essential services.
The Home Front Command issues nationwide restrictions during elevated security conditions, including rocket fire, missile threats or other risks, as part of Israel’s civil defense system.
The embassy said Filipinos should comply with local regulations, remain inside their homes and be prepared to immediately enter a protected space or shelter whenever an urgent alert, known as “Tseva Adom,” is sounded.
It said its 24/7 emergency hotline +972 54 466 1188 remains available for assistance.
President Marcos, meanwhile, directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to ensure the safety of Filipinos in Iran, and across the Middle East.
President’s directive
The President confirmed that they have received reports of airstrikes hitting Iran and are in the process of getting more information.
“The safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and in the Middle East is paramount,” Mr. Marcos said.
He reaffirmed that agencies have been ordered to quickly locate Filipinos in affected areas and safeguard them.
“I have instructed the DFA and the DMW to take measures to determine their whereabouts in affected areas and to take immediate measures to ensure their safety,” the President said.
Malacañang said authorities are closely monitoring developments.
PAL advisory
Following security concerns amid Iran airstrike reports, Philippine Airlines (PAL) canceled and diverted some of its flights for Middle East routes.
The national carrier said on Saturday that the safety and security of its passengers and crew remain its highest priority, prompting it to take the move.
Two PAL flights, one bound for Riyadh and another for Dubai, were expected to arrive in Manila on Saturday night after they were asked to return. Both left Ninoy Aquino International Airport earlier in the day.
On the other hand, the following flights for Feb. 28 were canceled: PR684 (Manila–Doha), PR655 (Riyadh–Manila) and PR659 (Dubai–Manila). For March 1, PR685 (Doha–Manila) was canceled.
PAL said it is coordinating closely with aviation authorities, airport operators and government agencies regarding airspace and operational advisories.
“We are assisting affected passengers with rebooking, rerouting or refunds in accordance with PAL policies,” it added in an advisory.
Passengers are urged to check the status of their flights via the PAL website, mobile app or official social media channels before heading to the airport.
“Philippine Airlines emphasizes that we will not compromise on safety. All operational decisions are guided by authoritative risk assessments and civil aviation safety protocols,” the airline said.
