Pinoys urged to leave Lebanon amid increasing tension

Michael Punongbayan – The Philippine Star

August 18, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine embassy in Lebanon is asking Filipinos to leave the country amid the increasing threat of violence in the region.

In an urgent notice calling for immediate evacuation, it strongly urged “all Filipino citizens to leave Lebanon immediately while the airport remains operational.”

“We advise all Filipino nationals to prioritize their safety and depart the country as soon as possible,” the embassy announced on its official Facebook page.

“If you are unable to leave Lebanon, we strongly recommend that you evacuate to safer areas outside of Beirut, South Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley,” the notice added.

The embassy noted that for repatriation assistance, Filipino citizens in Lebanon may fill out the repatriation form online at https://tinyurl.com/2024Repatriation.

It added that those needing assistance may contact the following numbers for further assistance: for all overseas Filipino workers (OFW), documented or undocumented: +961 7911 0729; for overseas Filipinos (dependents with permanent resident status, i.e., wife iqama): +961 7085 8086.

“The safety and security of every Filipino citizen is our top priority. We urge you to act swiftly and follow the above instructions to ensure your safety,” the embassy said.

Mpox warning in Kenya

Meanwhile, the Philippine embassy in Kenya has called on Filipinos in the country to take necessary health precautions against the threat of mpox.

In a public advisory posted on its Facebook page, the embassy said the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

It noted that Filipino communities in East Africa are also advised of the latest pronouncements on mpox.

The embassy said Africa CDC director general Dr. Jean Kaseya clarified that there will be no interruption of movements of people and goods.

According to the WHO, mpox can affect anyone and spreads through direct contact with infected individuals, animals, contaminated objects or respiratory droplets.

“The embassy urges the Filipino community to stay informed and follow preventive guidelines rigorously – avoid physical contact with individuals displaying symptoms or touching their personal belongings, and practice diligent handwashing with soap and clean water,” the health notice said.

Ban lifted

In another development, the ban on the deployment of OFWs to American Samoa has been lifted, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.

In its Advisory No. 22-2024, the DMW said American Samoa – considered a territory of the United States – is now open to OFWs.

“The processing of the deployment of newly hired and returning Filipino workers with valid and existing contracts to American Samoa shall now be allowed,” it said.

The DMW made the announcement after the Department of Foreign Affairs issued a Certificate of Compliance for American Samoa.

It pointed out that American Samoa was found to have existing labor and social laws, which protect the rights of workers, including migrant workers.

“The Certificate of Compliance for American Samoa guarantees the rights of foreign workers,” the advisory read.

Under the law, the Philippine government shall allow the deployment of OFWs only in countries where the rights of Filipino migrant workers are protected. — Rhodina Villanueva

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