Statement of Senator Risa Hontiveros on repatriation of Filipinos from Israel, Iran

Filipinos living in Israel and Iran must be brought to safety immediately.

I urge the DFA and the DMW to encourage the immediate repatriation of our kababayans. If necessary, mandatory repatriation must also be imposed on those residing in areas already affected by missile attacks.

At habang ginagawa ang mga ito, dapat handa na ang mga ahensya dito sa Pilipinas na tanggapin ang mga OFW na pabalik ng bansa. Reintegration programs, livelihood assistance, and psychosocial support should be in place for evacuees.

Considering the potential number of Filipinos who may have to be evacuated from the region if this escalates, the government has to start organizing and making sure contingency plans are in place.

Hindi natin alam kailan huhupa ang sagupaang ito. Government must be ready for all possible scenarios and ensure that no Filipino is left behind in this conflict.