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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Not neutrality': DFA chief defends PH stance on Middle East conflict

'Not neutrality': DFA chief defends PH stance on Middle East conflict

Published Mar 25, 2026 01:23 pm
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said she "would not consider that neutrality" that the Philippines is not taking any stand or any side in the Middle East conflict as the government right now is only prioritizing the welfare of Filipinos in the affected countries.
At the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel, Lazaro defended the Philippines' absence of statement condemning any party involved in the Middle East conflict that has affected even ordinary citizens across the world.
Lazaro said the Philippines is not yet talking about possibly recalibrating its relations with the US just as it is also "cautious" about making any changes in its diplomatic ties with Iran.
"Recalibration? Perhaps the later stage but not at this point in time. Not yet because we have to continue discussing with them," the country's top diplomat said Wednesday, March 25.
Lazaro said, "we have to admit that when it comes to  defense and security issues, the United States is a very important ally, being the only treaty ally of the Philippines."
With regards to Iran, Lazaro said it also recognizes that Iran is "having retaliatory attacks against" countries in the Middle East.
Why the term retaliatory is because there are "offensive strikes" being made by the US and Israel against Iran.
"When it comes to our OFWs (overseas Filipino workers), 2.5 million, we just want to be sure that they're also protected. Sila ang iniisip natin," she said.
"Hanggang doon lang naman (It's only up to that). It's not really, I would not  consider that neutrality kasi sinasabi natin pag statements, sinasabi ko naman (because what we're saying in the statements)... the situation is there," she added, noting it's really "the protection" of OFWs that they're concerned about.
Lazaro also said that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is currently being chaired by the Philippines, is "so balanced" when it comes to its pronouncements on the issue.
The recent ASEAN foreign ministers' statement is "already a testimonial," she added.
"We are not condemning one country. But the situation is such," she said.

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