DFA to Filipinos in India-Pakistan border: Stay vigilant amid rising tensions

Metro Manila, Philippines- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday called on Filipinos in conflict areas near the India-Pakistan border to remain alert and take necessary precautions in the wake of a deadly escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

“The Department is closely monitoring the situation between India and Pakistan. We call for a peaceful resolution to the current issues,” the DFA said in a statement.

Renewed hostilities were triggered after India launched what it called “Operation Sindoor” that targeted what it described as terror training camps across the Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab province.

Pakistani officials claim the attacks struck mosques and civilian homes, killing at least 26 and wounding dozens. India, meanwhile, reported at least 10 deaths in Indian-administered Kashmir from retaliatory Pakistani fire.

Islamabad has condemned the missile strikes as an “act of war” and vowed a robust response. The violence follows an April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed several civilians and soldiers. India blames Pakistan for the attack, while Pakistan denies any involvement.

The DFA said the Philippine embassy in Islamabad has confirmed that there are no Filipinos, adding that it continues to coordinate closely with authorities and monitor developments on the ground.

“We advise the Filipino community in the affected areas to take sensible precautions and continue to be vigilant,” the DFA said.

The agency lists 3,151 registered Filipinos in Pakistan and an estimated 3,350 in India.

The DFA assured the public that contingency plans are in place and the embassy is ready to assist Filipino nationals who may be affected by the escalating conflict.