MARCH 1, 2026 — The country’s top defense officials want Filipinos to breathe easy: despite the explosions rocking the Middle East, the Philippines is safe. The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) assured the public that the conflict poses “no direct threat” to our territory.

The statement came after the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites on February 28, killing hundreds, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran hit back with missiles and drones, targeting bases in the UAE, Qatar, and Dubai. 

The fighting may be fierce abroad, but defense chiefs insist it’s contained.

Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla of the AFP urged calm, reminding Filipinos to rely only on verified information. 

“We urge vigilance against disinformation and condemn those who unnecessarily rouse panic during these circumstances,” the DND said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has already ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to roll out emergency measures for overseas Filipinos. So far, no embassy has reported any Filipino casualties. Still, the AFP is on standby for humanitarian missions, evacuation efforts, and repatriation operations should the situation worsen.

For families with loved ones in the Middle East, the government has released lifeline hotlines through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA):

• Metro Manila – 138
• Regional (mobile phone) – (02) 1348
• International – (+632) 1348
• Viber Globe – +63 915 079 5005
• Viber Smart – +63 969 169 7068
• Viber Globe – +63 966 473 9543
• Government 24/7 hotline – +972 54 466 1188

While the Philippines may not be in the direct line of fire, millions of OFWs are. Their safety, jobs, and mobility are tied to the stability of a region now under siege. And when their lives are disrupted, the ripple hits home — remittances, family support, and the everyday survival of countless households.

Officials say we’re safe, but Filipinos know better than to tune out. Calm is good, vigilance is better, and readiness is non-negotiable.

But how long can we stay calm when the storm is already shaking the ground beneath our kababayans abroad?

(Image: Yahoo News | Facebook)