Malacañang has advised Filipinos residing in California to stay vigilant following warnings of a possible retaliatory strike by Iran.
The advisory came after the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) informed California police departments that Iran attempted to launch unmanned aerial vehicles at unspecified targets in the state last February and cautioned about potential future attacks.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government prioritizes the safety of Filipinos overseas and is prepared to conduct repatriation operations if necessary.
“Kapag may mga ganiyan na impormasyon, kailangan din talagang maghanda ang ating bansa para sa ating mga kababayan,” she said.
“Hindi ito puwedeng isawalang-bahala o tulugan, kailangan na maging alerto rin tayo kung ano’t anuman ang mangyayari sa ating mga kababayan sa California,” Castro added.
The ongoing Middle East conflict has also disrupted global oil supplies, shipping, and air travel.
As of March 11, the Department of Migrant Workers reported that more than 110 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their dependents have already been repatriated.