Outgoing Senator Koko Pimentel expressed concerns about the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, saying it endangers thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) across the Middle East.
The Philippines has thousands of nationals deployed across the Middle East, many of whom are stationed in conflict-sensitive areas.
Pimentel, an advocate for OFW protection, said the government must act with urgency and diplomacy.
The veteran legislator also cited its effects on oil supplies and global prices.
“Malaki ang impact nito dahil apektado ang oil prices,” the seasoned lawmaker said.
“We should never encourage war.”
“Ang dami nating deployment ng OFWs doon. Maraming mga Filipinos nandoon. We do not like war. We should never encourage war,” the senator added.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) estimates that there are 2,000 Filipinos living in Iran, some of whom are married to locals.
“The Philippines should adopt a firm foreign policy stance rooted in peace and diplomacy.”
The former Senate President urged the Philippines to adopt a firm foreign policy stance rooted in peace and diplomacy.
“We are now seeing the consequences of war. Ang daming abala at destruction at loss of lives,” he said.
“We should adopt policies that will minimize the possibility of war,” Pimentel stressed.
