Senator Risa Hontiveros has urged the government to consider imposing mandatory repatriation of Filipinos from Israel and Iran as the conflict between the two countries continue.

Hontiveros made the call even after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. thumbed down calls to enforce mandatory repatriation.

“Filipinos living in Israel and Iran must be brought to safety immediately,” Hontiveros said.

“I urge the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and the DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) to encourage the immediate repatriation of our kababayans,” she said.

“If necessary, mandatory repatriation must also be imposed on those residing in areas already affected by missile attacks,” the senator stressed.

And while these are being done, Hontiveros said the agencies here in the Philippines should be ready to receive the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning to the country.

According to the lawmaker, reintegration programs, livelihood assistance, and psychosocial support should be in place for evacuees

“Considering the potential number of Filipinos who may have to be evacuated from the region if this escalates, the government has to start organizing and making sure contingency plans are in place,” she explained.

“Hindi natin alam kailan huhupa ang sagupaang ito (We have no idea when this conflict will end). Government must be ready for all possible scenarios and ensure that no Filipino is left behind in this conflict,” she reiterated.

Meanwhile, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said he will seek a Senate inquiry into the potential impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on the country’s energy security.

“We must take decisive action to address the potential impact of the Israel-Iran conflict, particularly on our OFWs, fuel prices, and electricity rates in the country especially in off-grid areas,” Gatchalian said.

He said he would be filing a resolution that seeks to assess the risks of the Israel-Iran conflict to the countrys energy needs.

“Through this inquiry, we aim to strengthen our preparedness, ensure the continuous supply of energy, and protect consumers from rising costs,” he said.

“Kahandaan ang ating sandata sa kawalang-katiyakang dulot ng giyera sa pagitan ng Israel at Iran (Our weapon is our readiness for the uncertainty caused by the war between Israel and Iran),” he stressed.