President Marcos has expressed his gratitude to Israel for supporting and ensuring the safety of Filipinos living and working in the Holy Land amid the escalating armed conflict in the Middle East.

Marcos said this during a phone conversation with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Thursday, Oct. 16.

In a Facebook post, Marcos thanked Israel for their care and support for Filipinos.

"I wish to express our gratitude to Israel for the care and support extended to Filipinos working and living in your country," he said.

"Israel's swift assistance in ensuring their safety, especially during these challenging times, means a great deal to us," he added.

With this, President Marcos hoped that the conflict in the Middle East would be resolved soon as he noted that Israel is one of the Philippines' most trusted partners in the region.

"Israel remains one of our trusted bilateral partners in the Middle East region, with a historic friendship that predates the establishment of the Israeli state," he said.

"We remain hopeful for a swift path to peace, and together, may we continue to build on the strong bonds between our nations," he added.

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post, the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines thanked President Marcos for his support of their country.

Last week during the 46th and 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Laos, Marcos expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and continuing violence in the Middle East. He likewise urged concerned parties to negotiate for peace.

"The Philippines as well is gravely concerned over the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and the increasing tensions in the Middle East region, particularly in Lebanon," the President said.

"We urge all parties to refrain from escalating the violence and to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict. The Philippines supports a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine coexist peacefully in mutual security," he added.