25 Pinoys in Gaza seek repatriation to PH

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said at least 25 Filipinos in Gaza have assistance in returning to the Philippines.

This as casualties mounts amid the war between Israeli forces and a Palestinian militant group.

Philippine Embassy in Amman, Jordan, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza on Monday afternoon shared that 25 Filipinos in the Gaza Strip signified their intention to be repatriated to the Philippines. The number of requests may change.

Daza added that there are currently 137 Filipinos in the Palestinian territory run by the militant group Hamas. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega earlier said in the public briefing “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon” that the exclave may be invaded by Israel.

On Saturday, Hamas carried out a highly coordinated surprise attack on Israelis, killing hundreds by firing a barrage of rockets and sending gunmen to southern Israel.

In retaliation, Israeli forces have begun pounding Gaza with airstrikes. Authorities said the death toll from both sides has risen to over 1,100, with at least 700 Israelis and 400 Palestinians killed

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Arnell Ignacio said the government is ready to repatriate those who wish to go home, although they are still awaiting clearance.

“Ang repatriation po ay gagawin lamang natin, una kung meron tayong full clearance. Pangalawa, kung sila po ay nanghihingi talaga na sila ay iuwi,” Ignacio said.

Unlike in Gaza, Philippine authorities said they have not yet received reports of Filipinos in Israel who have expressed the desire to be repatriated.

“Sa karanasan namin, kadalasan ang mga taga-Israel, ang hinihingi lamang nila ilagay sila sa mas safe na lugar,” Ignacio said.