House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left) observes President Marcos as he holds an emergency video conference with concerned members of his Cabinet to get updates on the ongoing efforts to secure Filipinos affected by the growing tensions in the Middle East. (Photo courtesy of PCO).

House Speaker Martin Romualdez saw first hand President Marcos' concern for Filipinos in the Middle East on Wednesday, Oct. 9 when the latter called for an emergency video conference with his Cabinet on the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN Summit in Laos. 

"The President's decision to prioritize the safety of our countrymen, even while attending the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit in Laos, reflects his deep concern and dedication to every Filipino," Speaker Romualdez said in a statement sent to House of Representatives reporters in the Philippines. 

Romualdez, arguably Marcos' top lieutenant, is accompanying the President in Laos. 

The Speaker sat next to Marcos when the Chief Executive held the video conference with his Cabinet to get updates on the ongoing government efforts to secure the safety and well-being of Filipinos in the Middle East. 

This, as Israel ramps up its offensive against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. 

ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The Philippines is a founding member of the regional bloc. 

In an ambush interview with reporters in Laos, Romualdez said the President's action “was an urgent call to assess the situation". 

“There was growing tension in the Middle East and we have to secure our Filipinos there. We wanted to make the security arrangements and assure them that amidst the growing tensions, we secure our Filipinos in the region,” the Speaker said.