MANILA, Philippines – As the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies in Lebanon, the Philippine government is seriously considering raising the alert level and implementing a mandatory evacuation of its citizens, officials said Friday.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) warned that while there are currently no plans for a large-scale repatriation, the situation remains fluid, and the government is closely monitoring developments.
“We know the conflict is centered between Israel and Hezbollah targets, and not the entirety of Lebanon,” said DFA Undersecretary for Migration Eduardo Jose de Vega. “But we are ready to implement a mandatory evacuation should the need arise.”
The majority of the estimated 11,000 Filipinos in Lebanon, including community leaders, have so far been “very hesitant to leave,” according to Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Raymond Balatbat. Many feel relatively safe and are determined to “survive this conflict.”
However, the government is urging Filipinos to take advantage of the voluntary repatriation program, with the next batch of evacuees expected to depart in the first week of October. So far, 430 Filipinos have been repatriated, with an additional 100 expected in the coming days.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) assured that it is working closely with the DFA to prioritize the in-country evacuation of Filipinos, particularly those in the conflict-affected southern region. The DMW has prepared shelters in Beirut and is ready to facilitate the repatriation process.
“Ninety-nine percent of OFWs in Lebanon work in households, and we understand that some may be staying due to loyalty or necessity,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. “However, we are encouraging voluntary repatriation for their safety.”
The situation in Lebanon remains volatile, with the United Nations warning that “hell is breaking loose” along the UN-patrolled line of separation. Israel has rejected a ceasefire with Hezbollah and vowed to continue its “full force” strikes, raising concerns of a larger regional conflict.
“While this is happening, the Philippines reiterates its call to all parties to prevent further escalation and urge for a peaceful solution to the conflict in the region,” de Vega said.
