Philippine Senator Robin Padilla. ARCHIVE

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East due to ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran, Philippine Senator Robin Padilla on Monday (June 16) called for urgent talks on an “evacuation plan” for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) based in the region. In a statement shared on his official social media channels, Padilla emphasized the need for readiness should the conflict escalate further, directly impacting Filipinos across affected countries. “Langis, malaking issue ito sa bilihin. Kumusta ang ating food security? (Oil is a big issue on food supply. How is our food security?),” he wrote, hinting at broader implications of the war beyond security. The senator’s call comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its fourth day, with over 240 people reported dead in both countries since the exchange of airstrikes began on Friday. Israeli strikes have reportedly hit an Iranian oil refinery and sections of the power grid, while Iranian missiles have caused damage in Israel, prompting fears of further escalation. The conflict has already disrupted flights across the Gulf region. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia have suspended or rerouted several flights to and from countries including Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Israel. Most suspensions are expected to last until June 22 to June 30, depending on the destination. Travelers were advised to check with airlines for real-time updates and refrain from traveling to affected areas.

Mixed reactions from OFWs

Padilla’s proposal drew mixed reactions from Filipinos in the Middle East. Some expressed support for a preemptive evacuation plan, particularly those based in high-risk areas like Israel and Jordan. “Please prioritize those based in Israel, Jordan, and Iran. They are in danger because they are right at the center of the attacks,” one netizen commented in Filipino. However, Filipinos in the UAE said they felt safe and that any evacuation should be limited to those in immediate danger. “We’re okay here in the UAE,” said another commenter. A more cautious view came from others, who worried about what would happen after being repatriated. “Let’s be real. Planning for evacuation is crucial for our safety, but what about our future? If we get evacuated to the Philippines, what will we do? What jobs can we do? Let’s think about this and plan ahead,” another Filipino posted. Naiviv Velsoli Alleba, a caregiver in Kuwait City, said she was willing to be repatriated. “We can go home any time. Jordan and Kuwait are in the middle and we’re very close to the airstrikes,” added Habanon Anne, another OFW based in the region.

Travel and safety advisories

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory over the weekend, urging Emiratis in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Israel to register with Twajudi, a government platform designed to assist UAE nationals abroad in emergencies. Airlines have confirmed that passengers with onward connections to affected countries from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah will not be accepted at their point of origin until further notice. Emirates said it is “monitoring the situation and making all efforts to ensure minimal disruption.” Etihad Airways, meanwhile, confirmed that it is rerouting flights to avoid restricted airspace in the region. Flydubai said it has suspended all flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Israel, and Syria until June 30. As the situation unfolds, global leaders continue to urge diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the deadly conflict. Reports from US and Israeli officials indicate that Israel’s military campaign may last “weeks, not days,” and could potentially draw other countries into the conflict. ICA/Expat Media
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