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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DFA assists Filipinos in Middle East amid tensions; repatriation and aid continue

DFA assists Filipinos in Middle East amid tensions; repatriation and aid continue

Published Apr 6, 2026 08:35 pm
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it continues to assist Filipinos in the Middle East amid tensions, facilitating repatriation, aid, and consular services. (DFA photo)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it continues to assist Filipinos in the Middle East amid tensions, facilitating repatriation, aid, and consular services. (DFA photo)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday, April 6, said it continues to closely monitor developments in the Middle East, with Philippine posts intensifying assistance to overseas Filipinos affected by ongoing regional tensions.
In a statement, the DFA outlined a series of repatriation efforts, welfare initiatives, and coordination measures across key areas, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
244 Filipinos safely transferred from Bahrain
In Bahrain, the DFA said the Philippine Embassy facilitated the land transit of 244 Filipinos to Saudi Arabia as part of government-led repatriation efforts.
All 244 Filipinos arrived safely in Dammam on April 2, marking a significant step toward their eventual return to the Philippines.
The Embassy also addressed the mental well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) by conducting an online psychosocial support session on March 31 in coordination with the Department of Health.
Moreover, 60 OFWs participated in discussions on coping strategies and stress management led by medical professionals from the Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital.
Stranded Filipino pilgrims assisted in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the DFA said the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah extended assistance to 14 stranded Filipino Umrah pilgrims who had no confirmed return flights as of April 3.
The consulate also provided financial aid and guidance on available travel options to help facilitate their return to the Philippines.
Repatriation operations continue in Turkey
Meanwhile, in Turkey, the Philippine Consulate General in Istanbul assisted in the repatriation of 10 OFWs from Lebanon and Turkey bound for Manila.
The DFA said this latest batch brings the total number of Filipinos repatriated through Istanbul to 73 across eight batches, underscoring sustained government efforts to bring affected nationals home.
UAE reports intercepted missiles; PH posts maintain services
In the United Arab Emirates, authorities reported a rise in security incidents amid regional tensions.
Citing the UAE Ministry of Defence, eight ballistic missiles, four cruise missiles, and 36 drones had been intercepted as of April 1. While falling debris, localized fires, and aviation restrictions were recorded, no major direct strike sites have been confirmed.
Despite the situation, the DFA said the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai continues to operate. Since March 30, it has delivered 908 consular services and facilitated the repatriation of 245 stranded visa holders.
To cushion economic impacts, the DFA noted that UAE Deputy Prime Minister Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum approved a AED 1 billion (approximately USD 272.3 million) support package for Dubai’s business sector.
The DFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Filipinos in the Middle East, emphasizing close coordination among embassies and consulates.
It urged Filipinos in affected areas to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ guidance, and stay in contact with Philippine posts for assistance.

Related Tags

DFA Middle East updates OFW repatriation 2026 Filipinos in UAE crisis Bahrain Filipinos Saudi transfer Philippine embassy assistance Middle East
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