MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Monday called on the government to urgently reach out to all Filipinos — documented or not — who wish to return home from Israel and Iran, amid escalating tensions between the two countries.

Escudero urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to immediately locate and assist Filipinos in the two conflict zones and prepare swift repatriation plans.

“The DFA and DMW should go the extra mile in locating and reaching out to Filipinos in Israel and Iran to determine who wants to get out,” Escudero said. “It doesn’t matter if they are legally staying or undocumented. What’s important is that those who fear for their safety and want to go home are assisted without delay.”

The Senate leader emphasized that the government has the experience and funds for repatriation efforts, especially during armed conflicts or disasters abroad.

“Ang mahalaga ay matukoy agad kung nasaan ang mga kababayan natin at alukin ng biyahe pauwi ang mga may panganib sa kanilang buhay,” he said.

Once home, Escudero said the DMW should provide stress debriefing for repatriated Filipinos and assist those who choose to stay in the Philippines with career options and reintegration support.

“It is imperative that repatriated Filipinos who wish to remain in the country are provided with the opportunities and the tools needed to start fresh,” he added.

Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated last week after Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military sites. In retaliation, Iran fired missiles and conducted air strikes against Israel.

The DFA estimates around 50,000 Filipinos are in Israel and another 2,000 in Iran, some of whom are married to local citizens