MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte has issued an urgent advisory to Filipinos residing and traveling in the Middle East, calling for heightened vigilance as tensions and armed hostilities escalate in parts of the region.

Opening her message with “Assalamu Alaykum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,” Duterte appealed directly to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and other nationals abroad to prioritize their safety. She urged them to avoid areas with ongoing military operations and large public gatherings, stressing that unpredictable developments could place civilians at risk.

The Vice President also encouraged Filipinos to closely monitor official announcements from local authorities and the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs in their host countries. She emphasized the importance of relying only on credible media sources to avoid falling prey to misinformation, which often spreads rapidly during crises.

Regular communication with family members was likewise highlighted, ensuring loved ones remain informed of their whereabouts and condition. Duterte advised Filipinos to keep emergency contact numbers of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and local authorities readily available, and to ensure their passports and travel documents remain valid and accessible.

Importantly, she warned that if the security situation worsens, Filipinos must be prepared to change travel or residency plans at short notice. Embassies and consulates, she noted, stand ready to provide guidance on the safest routes and procedures for possible repatriation.

Her statement reflects a broader reality: global conflicts can swiftly reshape the circumstances of migrant communities far from home. Preparedness, adaptability, and access to accurate information are no longer optional—they are essential.

As the government continues to monitor developments, one question remains: In times of global uncertainty, are individuals and institutions equally prepared to act before crisis forces their hand? (Larawan mula sa: Inday Sara Duterte / Facebook)