Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 9) — Twenty-five Filipinos in Gaza have sought assistance in returning to the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Monday, as casualties mount amid the war between Israeli forces and a Palestinian militant group.
Citing the Philippine Embassy in Amman, Jordan, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza on Monday afternoon shared to reporters that 25 Filipinos in the Gaza Strip signified their intention to be repatriated to the Philippines. The number of requests may change.
Daza added that there are currently 137 Filipinos in the Palestinian territory run by the militant group Hamas. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega earlier said in the public briefing “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon” that the exclave may be invaded by Israel.
On Saturday, Hamas carried out a highly coordinated surprise attack on Israelis, killing hundreds by firing a barrage of rockets and sending gunmen to southern Israel.
In retaliation, Israeli forces have begun pounding Gaza with airstrikes. Authorities said the death toll from both sides has risen to over 1,100, with at least 700 Israelis and 400 Palestinians killed
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Arnell Ignacio said the government is ready to repatriate those who wish to go home, although they are still awaiting clearance.
“Ang repatriation po ay gagawin lamang natin, una kung meron tayong full clearance. Pangalawa, kung sila po ay nanghihingi talaga na sila ay iuwi,” Ignacio said.
[Translation: We will only begin the repatriation if we’re given full clearance to do so, and if our countrymen ask for our help.]
Unlike in Gaza, Philippine authorities said they have not yet received reports of Filipinos in Israel who have expressed the desire to be repatriated.
“Sa karanasan namin, kadalasan ang mga taga-Israel, ang hinihingi lamang nila ilagay sila sa mas safe na lugar,” Ignacio said.
[Translation: In our experience, Filipinos in Israel usually just ask to be evacuated to safer areas.]
The OWWA official on Sunday said there are around 24,800 overseas Filipinos in Israel who are mostly caregivers and hotel employees.
