PH embassy: Alert level 4 raised, mandatory repatriation for Pinoys in Iraq ordered

The Philippine Embassy raised alert level 4 and ordered mandatory repatriation for Pinoys in Iraq on Wednesday as the tension between the US and the Middle East rises after an Iranian military commander was killed in a drone attack last week.

Department of Foreign Affairs says level 4 is the highest alert level for travel advisories. It also calls for mandatory repatriation of Filipinos in Iraq.

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It is also issued when there is a large-scale internal conflict or full-blown external attack

“Ang marching order sa amin ay mandatory repatriation,” said Chargé d’Affaires Jomar Sadie through a live video on the embassy’s official Facebook page.

(Our marching order is mandatory repatriation.)

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Saide also urged the Pinoys in Iraq to coordinate closely with their employers and with the Philippine embassy.

He added that Filipinos there need to secure their exit visas and a ticket for the mandatory repatriation.

“Kung walang employer o biktima ng human trafficking, tumawag sa amin para matulungan namin kayo o pumunta directly sa embassy,” Sadie added.

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(If they do not have an employer or if they are a victim of human trafficking, they should call us so we can help them or they can directly go to the embassy.)

Sadie also advised overseas Filipino workers (OFW) to keep and hold on to their passports all the time.

Filipinos may reach the embassy at 07816066822; 07516167838; 07518764665; and 07508105240.

They may also contact the embassy via email through baghdad.pe@dfa.gov.ph or embaphilbaghdad.secretary1@gmail.com, or through its Facebook page, Philippine Embassy in Iraq.

Also read: Duterte tasks AFP to evacuate Pinoys if US-Iran-Iraq tensions escalate


U.S. embassy Manila releases security alert amid US-Iran tensions

The U.S. Embassy Manila released a security alert on Tuesday, January 1, in relation to the heightened Middle East or the US-Iran tensions.

The alert reads:

There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad.

The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed.

Actions to Take:

  • Keep a low profile.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
  • Review your personal security plans.
  • Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.

Assistance: