Pasay City – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced that the Philippine Ambassador to Israel will meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog as part of the government's intensified efforts to secure the departure of 115 Filipinos from Gaza.
According to Philippines News Agency, while the meeting is officially a courtesy call by Ambassador Pedro Laylo Jr., the agenda will include a discussion of Manila's request for assistance in the early exit of Filipinos from the conflict-ridden region. De Vega conveyed the anticipation that Israel will prioritize the Philippine request.
The DFA, in a subsequent release, reassured the Filipinos still in Gaza that their safe evacuation is a significant concern and that the department has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts for their security. The statement detailed that Gaza is under a stringent blockade, making exit procedures complex and heavily reliant on negotiations with various governments.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo is reportedly in direct communication with Egyptian authorities and has mobilized the Philippine Embassy in Cairo to coordinate the potential evacuation. This comes in light of a recent advisory suggesting that a limited number of individuals might be allowed to leave Gaza via the Rafah border on November 1.
Secretary Manalo has addressed communications to Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, reiterating the plea for permits that would enable the safe passage of the Filipinos in question. Following up on these efforts, he has sought an expedited dialogue with Cohen to ensure the Filipinos' swift and secure border crossing.
The DFA has expressed its unwavering commitment to the safety of Filipinos abroad, asserting continuous advocacy for their protection amidst the crisis.