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A fireball lights the sky following a missile strike on Tel Aviv on February 28, 2026. The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, with Israel's public broadcaster reporting that the Iranian supreme leader had been targeted, as the Islamic republic retaliated with barrages of missiles at Gulf states and Israel.
AFP / John Wessels
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have reassured the public that the ongoing Middle East conflict poses "no direct" threat to the country.
In a statement on Sunday, March 1, authorities said the airstrikes between the US, Israel, and Iran are localized and limited to the Middle East.
"At the moment, the conflict is contained within the Middle East and there is no credible direct threat to our territory and Filipino and foreign citizens in the country," the defense department said.
Meanwhile, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilal urged Filipinos to stay calm but vigilant by relying on official channels and verified information. The DND and AFP also cautioned the public against disinformation that could trigger unnecessary panic.
"We urge vigilance against disinformation and condemn those who unnecessarily rouse panic during these circumstances," the DND said.
Since the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran's nuclear sites on February 28, hundreds have reportedly been killed, including Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and children at an all-girls' school in Minab.
Casualties have also been reported in other Persian Gulf countries as Iran continues to launch waves of missiles and drones at US and Israeli bases in retaliation. Areas affected include the United Arab Emirates, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar.
Since the Middle East is also home to millions of Filipinos, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. directed the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to implement emergency measures to ensure their safety.
He said that as of Sunday morning, no Philippine embassy in the region has reported any Filipino harmed in affected areas.
The DND and AFP said they are closely monitoring the escalating Middle East tensions and are prepared to assist in humanitarian and evacuation operations, including repatriation support and crisis response coordination.
"The AFP remains on standby to support the national government’s response should the situation require it. Upon directive, we are prepared to assist in humanitarian missions, evacuation efforts, and potential repatriation operations for Filipinos in affected areas," Padilla said.
Filipinos who have relatives in the Middle East and need immediate assistance may contact the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration through the following channels:
- Metro Manila - 138
- Regional (mobile phone) - (02) 1348
- International - (+632) 1348
- Viber
- Globe - +63 915 079 5005
- Smart - +63 969 169 7068
- Globe - +63 966 473 9543
The Presidential Communications Office has also compiled a list of contact details for Philippine embassies in the affected countries. OFWs may also call the government's 24/7 hotline at +972 54 466 1188.
