NewsPCID Statement on the Escalation of Hostilities in the Middle East-and Recommended Actions for the Philippines

The Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID) expresses deep concern over the escalating hostilities in the Middle East following recent military strikes involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The intensification of armed conflict risks widening instability in an already volatile region and threatens serious humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical consequences.

For the Philippines, the crisis is not distant. Millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) live and work across the Middle East, making their safety and welfare a paramount concern. At the same time, the Philippine economy remains highly exposed to disruptions in oil supply and shipping routes from the region. As the current Chair of ASEAN, the Philippines also carries an important responsibility to help articulate a principled regional voice in moments of international crisis.

In light of these realities, PCID respectfully recommends the following actions by the Philippine government:

1) Prioritize the protection of Filipinos in the Middle East – The government should strengthen crisis coordination among the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Migrant Workers, and other relevant agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of OFWs. This includes intensified monitoring of the security situation, expanded consular assistance, and clear communication channels with Filipino communities in affected countries.

2) Prepare contingency plans for voluntary repatriation if conditions deteriorate – Government agencies should ensure readiness for possible repatriation operations, including logistical planning for transport, temporary accommodation, and reintegration assistance for returning workers.

3) Mitigate potential energy and economic shocks – Given the Philippines’ dependence on oil imports from the Middle East, the government should activate measures to manage potential supply disruptions and price volatility, including close monitoring of energy markets, supply diversification where possible, and policies to cushion vulnerable sectors from sudden increases in fuel prices.

4) Maintain a consistent diplomatic position calling for restraint and de-escalation – The Philippines should continue to emphasize the importance of diplomacy, respect for international law, and the protection of civilian populations in all statements concerning the conflict.

5) Issue a Statement the Philippines Could Advance as Chair of ASEAN – In its capacity as Chair of ASEAN, the Philippines could encourage the Association to issue a collective statement that:

• Calls for the immediate cessation of bombing and military escalation by all parties;
• Urges maximum restraint to prevent the conflict from widening across the region; Appeals for an urgent return to negotiations and diplomatic engagement through the
• United Nations and other multilateral mechanisms; and
• Reaffirms ASEAN’s longstanding commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes and the protection of civilian populations.

At moments such as this, responsible leadership requires both prudence and clarity. Protecting citizens, safeguarding economic stability, and advocating for diplomacy over escalation must remain the guiding priorities of the Philippines and the wider international community.###