MANILA — The Philippine military announced Tuesday that it is ready to act on any orders related to the Middle East conflict, including the repatriation of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Speaking at a press briefing, officials from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Philippine Navy (PN) emphasized their high level of preparedness for potential operations in the region.
PAF spokesperson Ma. Christina Basco noted that a successful repatriation requires careful planning, covering everything from ground coordination and prepositioning to securing diplomatic clearances. The long distance from the Middle East adds to the logistical challenges.
“The safety of our OFWs is our top priority. Every detail must be meticulously planned,” Basco said.
PN spokesperson Captain Marissa Martinez confirmed that the Navy has the capability to respond promptly. “Our ships have previously assisted Filipinos during crises in India and Oman. The Navy is ready to do so again, pending instructions from higher authorities,” she said.
When asked about escorting commercial tankers following U.S. initiatives, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad assured that the Navy would comply with any directive.
This development follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that the United States may provide naval escorts and insurance support for commercial vessels amid Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz after U.S. and Israeli strikes.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla stressed that any operation would involve coordinated efforts with the Department of Migrant Workers, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Department of National Defense. “Our teams are working around the clock to ensure every mission is thoroughly prepared,” she said.
elamigo/
