Filipinos in Lebanon were urged to consider leaving the foreign country while commercial flights are still available.
The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon made the advisory following the "unprecedented explosions of beepers" in Lebanon on Sept. 17 and 18, which killed 11 people and injured 2,800 individuals.
"The Philippine Embassy strongly urges all Filipino nationals to consider leaving the country while commercial flights are still available," the Philippine Embassy told Filipino nationals currently residing in Lebanon.
"Your safety and well-being are of utmost priority. Those who intend to remain for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution and remain in contact with the Embassy," the embassy added.
The embassy advised Filipinos to ensure that important documents such as passports and iqamas are ready and were told to closely monitor local and international news.
They were also advised to be aware of their surroundings and avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.
"Everyone is reminded to stay in touch with the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO-Lebanon) for voluntary repatriation and to update their status," the embassy further said.
Filipinos were also urged to register through https://tinyurl.com/2024Repatriation for repatriation, and contact the embassy in Lebanon or the Migrant Workers Office (MWO-Lebanon) via Embassy ATN hotline (for permanent residents): 70 858 086 or Migrant Workers Office hotline (for all workers): 79 110 729.
"The Philippine Embassy understands that this may be a challenging time, and we are here to support you throughout this process. Your prompt action is crucial to ensure your safety and well-being," the embassy said.
According to the embassy, the explosions predominantly occurred in the southern suburbs of Beirut, South Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley.