Manila, Philippines – Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed support for calls urging a ceasefire among countries involved in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
On Monday, the President also met with his cabinet, noting while the Philippines’ involvement is only tangential, it remains deeply concerning due to the presence of Filipinos in the conflict areas.
Meanwhile, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilo Teodoro dismissed concerns that the Philippines could be dragged into the escalating conflict in the Middle East due to its alliance with the United States (US), saying such fears are unfounded.
The Secretary emphasized that the situation in the Middle East cannot be compared to the Philippines; instead, bilateral and multilateral alliances should be further strengthened to enhance the country’s defensive posture.
Teodoro stressed that the Philippines’ bilateral and multilateral alliances are strictly for defensive and deterrent purposes.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines previously stated that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East poses no direct threat to the country.
Furthermore, Teodoro added that the DND is focused on collaborating with the DFA and DMW for the safe repatriation of affected OFWs.
The Philippine Coast Guard is also reportedly on standby for possible mass repatriation from the Gulf nation.
Currently, the Government is taking steps to safely evacuate Filipinos who may be caught in the Middle East conflict.