President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (PCO file photo)
MANILA — Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered heightened protection measures for Filipinos in the Middle East as hostilities intensify, and on Sunday night confirmed the first reported Filipino fatality linked to the ongoing conflict.
In a March 1 video message released through official government channels, the President identified the victim as Mary Anne Velazquez Rivera, a caregiver from Pangasinan working in Israel. According to the report received by Philippine authorities, Rivera was assisting her ward toward a bomb shelter when they were caught in an attack before reaching safety.
Marcos said Rivera’s identity was confirmed by her husband, who is also an overseas Filipino worker in Israel.
“All the help their family will need will be provided by our government,” the President said, assuring that assistance would be extended to the victim’s family.
Earlier directive to safeguard Filipinos
Prior to confirming the fatality, Marcos directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to account for and safeguard Filipino nationals amid escalating tensions in parts of the region.
The directive instructed agencies to verify the status and location of Filipinos in potentially affected areas and to implement protective and assistance measures under established crisis-response protocols.
Sunday’s announcement marks the first officially acknowledged Filipino death linked to the current escalation.
Embassies on heightened alert
The DFA said Philippine embassies and consulates in the region remain on heightened alert and are prepared to extend assistance. Filipinos have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential movement where conditions warrant, and monitor official advisories from Philippine diplomatic posts and host-country authorities.
The Department of Migrant Workers is coordinating with employers, recruitment agencies, and overseas posts to verify the condition and whereabouts of overseas Filipino workers in affected jurisdictions.
Government agencies are reviewing contingency measures, including repatriation protocols, should conditions deteriorate. No mandatory evacuation order has been announced as of the latest official statements.
Regional escalation
The confirmation comes amid intensified hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The Middle East hosts a substantial Filipino population working across caregiving, healthcare, construction, engineering, and service industries.
Legislative appeal for vigilance
Separately, House Speaker Faustino “Bodjie” Dy III called for prayers and urged continued protection for overseas Filipino workers as reports of bombings circulated in parts of the region. His appeal echoed broader government calls for caution and reliance on verified information.
Continuing assessment
Officials said the situation remains fluid and that inter-agency coordination continues between the Office of the President, DFA, DMW, and Philippine diplomatic missions. Authorities reiterated that updates will be released through official government channels to ensure accuracy.
