VP Sara: Be prepared to change plans if situation in Middle East worsens
Vice President Sara Duterte (MB File Photo)
Vice President Sara Duterte has advised Filipinos in the Middle East to change their plans if the current situation in the region worsens.
"Kung lalo pang lumala ang sitwasyon sa seguridad, maging handa na baguhin ang inyong mga plano anumang oras kung kinakailangan (If the security situation worsens further, be prepared to change your plans at any time if necessary)," Duterte said in a video message on Sunday, March 1.
Duterte told Filipinos in the Middle East to ensure that their documents and passports are valid and in their possession.
"Gayundin kung kinakailangan ay lumapit sa ating mga embassy upang mabigyan ng tamang payo sa pinakaligtas na paraan sa pag-uwi ng Pilipinas (Likewise, if needed, approach our embassies to receive proper guidance on the safest way to return to the Philippines," she said.
The Vice President further told Filipinos to avoid areas where military operations are taking place or where there are large public gatherings.
She told them to closely monitor official advisories and notices from the local authorities of the country where they are staying, as well as from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in their areas.
"Maging mapagmatyag sa mga balita mula sa mapagkakatiwalaang organisasyon ng media (Stay alert to news from reputable media organizations)," she said.
"Panatilihin ang regular na komunikasyon sa inyong pamilya, mga mahal sa buhay, at mga pinagkakatiwalaang kaibigan tungkol sa inyong kinaroroonan at kalagayan (Maintain regular communication with your family, loved ones, and trusted friends regarding your location and situation)," she added.
Duterte also reminded them to ensure that they have the emergency contact numbers of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the local authorities of their host country.
The United States and Israel attacked Iran on Saturday. To counter the attacks, Iran fired drones and missiles at Israel and aimed strikes at US military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.