DFA raises crisis alert to 4 in Ukraine, orders mandatory evacuation of Filipinos

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) raised the crisis alert level to 4 in Ukraine, mandating the evacuation of all Filipinos from the country at government expense due to the "rapidly deteriorating security situation."

This decision allows for the immediate repatriation and relocation of Filipinos by the Philippine Embassy in Poland and a Rapid Response Team.

Alert Level 4 signifies a 'large-scale internal conflict or full-blown external attack,' as defined by the DFA.

Filipinos in Ukraine are urged to contact the Philippine Embassy in Poland via phone, Viber, or WhatsApp for assistance.

As of March 9, 63 Filipinos have been repatriated, with more expected to arrive in the coming days.

Taguig-Pateros Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano lauded the DFA for its efforts in ensuring the safety and repatriation of Filipinos in Ukraine, noting the anxiety of families back home.