Nine Filipinos have returned to the Philippines after leaving Iran as tensions continue across the Middle East. Their arrival marks the first confirmed repatriation of Filipino nationals from the country since hostilities intensified.
The evacuation followed a joint U.S. and Israeli military operation against Tehran on Feb. 28, which heightened security risks across the region. Philippine authorities coordinated closely to move the group safely out of Iran. Their return signals the start of a wider effort to assist Filipinos affected by the crisis.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines confirmed the group arrived in the Philippines between March 10 and 11. Officials from the Office of the Undersecretary for Migration Affairs welcomed them upon arrival. Philippine embassies in Tehran and Ankara coordinated the evacuation. Both diplomatic missions organized the land crossing and arranged the onward flight back to Manila.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to assist Filipinos across the region. The DFA said it continues implementing President Bongbong Marcos’ directive to support citizens overseas. Philippine embassies and migrant support offices remain in close coordination as conditions in the Middle East evolve.
At a House hearing, DFA Undersecretary for Migration Affairs Ezzedin Tago presented updated figures on repatriation requests. As of March 10, the DFA had received 327 requests from Filipinos across the Middle East. Nine of these requests came from individuals located in Iran.
Current estimates place around 800 Filipinos living in Iran. Many are spouses of Iranian nationals and maintain families in the country. Philippine authorities continue monitoring the situation while preparing assistance for nationals who may request evacuation.
