PH embassies in Israel, Iraq urge Filipinos to stay alert over Mideast tensions
Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine embassies in Israel and Iraq have issued separate advisories urging Filipinos to remain indoors, avoid public places, and closely monitor security developments as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.
In Israel, the entire country has been placed under “Essential Activity” status beginning Friday, June 13 at 3 a.m., until Saturday, June 14, at 8 p.m., according to Israel’s Home Front Command, as hostilities with Iran escalate.
Under an Essential Activity status, all educational institutions are closed. Gatherings of any kind are prohibited, and work is suspended, except for those providing essential services.
“Mariing ipinapayo ng Embahada sa lahat ng Pilipino sa Israel na manatili sa loob ng kanilang mga tahanan at dapat maging handang pumasok sa shelter, safe room, o mamad sakaling magkaroon ng missile alert,” the embassy said.
[Translation: The Embassy strongly advises all Filipinos in Israel to stay indoors and be ready to enter a shelter, safe room, or mamad in case of a missile alert.]
The embassy also reminded Filipinos to follow security guidelines of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), as well as official safety advisories from the embassy and trusted news sources.
It called on Filipinos to be cautious, alert, and prepared to follow urgent emergency instructions.
Emergency Hotline (Israel): +972 54-4661188
Meanwhile, the Philippine embassy in Baghdad issued a similar alert urging Filipino nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iraq and refrain from visiting public places.
“Iraq remains at Alert Level 3 status,” the advisory noted, as it warned of the prevailing security situation in the region.
Filipinos already in Iraq were advised to monitor verified news outlets for developments, exercise extreme caution, and remain vigilant for their own safety and security.
Emergency Hotline (Iraq): +964 740 810 5240
Email: BAGHDAD.PE@DFA.GOV.PH
Facebook: @PHinIraq
The Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue evacuation advisories for either country.
Based on the latest DFA data, 30,742 Filipinos are working and living in Israel and at least 1,180 in Iran, mostly married to Iranian nationals.
