Gaza City — The nine Filipinos residing in Gaza City have been confirmed safe despite the ongoing and escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, now in its third week. Six Filipinos who had initially decided to return to their homeland and three who had chosen to stay are all unharmed amidst the continuous exchange of fires in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the six Filipinos were already near the Rafah crossing but chose to return to their homes in the north of Gaza City due to the long wait and cramped conditions. De Vega stated, "The good news is these six Filipinos and the three others, along with a Filipino nun, are safe and uninjured."
The Philippine Embassy in Jordan is actively monitoring the situation, ensuring the safety of the Filipinos as Israel intensifies its attacks against Hamas targets in the area. De Vega emphasized the voluntary decision of the six Filipinos to return, expressing hope for their continued safety. However, a family of 10 Filipinos remains unreachable in the besieged strip, likely due to power interruptions, though the Embassy believes they are safe and located in the southern portion of Gaza, away from the majority of the conflict.