DND Assures Public: Middle East War Poses 'No Direct Threat' to Philippine Territory — But AFP Is Ready Just in Case
As the Middle East erupts in conflict following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines moved quickly to reassure the public: the fighting poses "no direct threat" to Philippine territory. In a statement released Sunday, March 1, the DND said the airstrikes between the US, Israel, and Iran remain contained within the Middle East.
AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilal urged Filipinos to remain calm but vigilant, relying only on official channels and verified information. The DND also condemned those spreading disinformation that could trigger unnecessary panic during the crisis.
The joint US-Israeli attack on Iran's nuclear sites on February 28 has already resulted in hundreds of casualties, including Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with waves of missiles and drones targeting US and Israeli positions across the Persian Gulf, with the UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar all reporting impacts.
With millions of Filipinos living and working in the Middle East, President Marcos directed the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to implement emergency measures. As of Sunday morning, no Philippine embassy has reported any Filipino harmed in the affected areas — but the situation remains fluid.
The AFP said it stands ready to assist in humanitarian and evacuation operations if directed. Philippine embassies across the region have been placed on full alert, and the government is closely monitoring developments to protect the estimated 3 million OFWs in the line of fire.
Source: Philstar
