MANILA, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos said Tuesday that more than 1,400 Filipino nationals have requested repatriation from the Middle East, as tensions continue to escalate in the region.
In a press conference, Marcos said the government cannot proceed with the repatriation at this time due to airspace and airport closures.
Marcos noted that land evacuation also poses serious risks, as convoys could be mistaken for hostile movements.
Filipinos in Israel and other affected areas are advised to seek safe shelter and remain indoors.
While the Philippines is not directly involved in the ongoing conflict, the crisis has significant implications for the country, given that around 2.5 million Filipinos live and work across the Middle East.
Shrapnel killed a Filipina caregiver in Israel during the conflict over the weekend. ■