Filipino pilgrims attending the Hajj have started arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.
The first batch of Filipinos composed of around 292 individuals arrived in Madinah via a Philippine Airlines flight, the DFA added.
They were welcomed by Philippine embassy officials and the Philippine Consulate.
According to DFA, there are about 7,200 Filipino pilgrims who will join in this year's Hajj.
Chargé d'Affaires Rommel Romato thanked the Saudi government for their initiatives to enhance the experience of pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques.
"Millions of pilgrims, including those from the Philippines, will benefit from innovations such as automation of Hajj services and the Makkah Route initiative among others," he said.
The "Makkah Route" initiative has enabled pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration procedures at their country of origin before departing for Saudi Arabia. The Philippines is yet to be included in the program.
The Philippine Missions in Saudi Arabia have deployed Hajj assistance teams to help ensure the safety and security of Filipino pilgrims while in the Kingdom.