Govt raises crisis alert level 3 in Israel, Iran

The Philippine government has raised crisis alert level 3 in Israel and Iran, urging Filipinos in both countries to avail of voluntary repatriation due to ongoing armed hostilities.

This advisory affects an estimated 30,000 workers in Israel and over 1,000 in Iran, with travel to both nations highly discouraged.

Philippine officials attending training in Israel have been evacuated and have returned to Manila via Jordan.

Their return was facilitated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which has assured that the government will cover all repatriation expenses.

The DFA is also preparing the first batch of 187 OFWs in Israel who have formally signified their intention to be repatriated.

Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola confirmed eight Filipinos were injured, one critically, following Iran's missile strikes, with their medical expenses covered by the Israeli government.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) remains prepared to assist in potential repatriation efforts guided by civilian authorities.