18 Filipinos Stranded in Israel, Evacuation Underway
2 min read
JUNE 18,2025
MANILA, Philippines — Eighteen Filipino government officials are currently stranded in Israel after Iran launched missile strikes, prompting the country to shut its airspace. The group, composed mostly of local leaders, arrived between June 7 and 9 for a government-sponsored work visit and study tour.
They were scheduled to leave Israel on June 20, but the escalating conflict has grounded all flights in and out of the country.
Officials Safe, Sheltered in Central Israel
The delegates are part of an official program hosted by MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation. According to Irit Savion, deputy head of MASHAV, the group is safe and staying at a MASHAV center in central Israel.
“Our team is supporting them around the clock,” Savion told Philstar.com. “They have comfortable hotel accommodations, and all meals and necessities are provided.”
Despite the volatile situation, the Filipino officials continue to attend modified training sessions. “They’re still trying to learn as much as possible during this unexpected situation,” she added.
18 Filipinos Stranded in Israel-Land Evacuation to Jordan Begins
To ensure their safety, MASHAV has organized an overland evacuation plan. The group will travel to Jordan in batches via a designated border crossing. From there, they will fly back to the Philippines.
Savion said Israel will shoulder all expenses, including hotels in Jordan and flights back to Manila. “We’re coordinating with the Philippine Embassy and Jordanian authorities to make sure everything goes smoothly,” she said.
Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega confirmed the evacuation plan. “They’re alright and will go home by crossing into Jordan,” he told Philstar.com.
18 Filipinos Stranded in Israel-Filipino Casualties in the Region
While the officials remain unharmed, the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has injured at least seven Filipinos. One remains in critical condition, according to the Department of Migrant Workers.
The missile exchange, now in its fifth day, has resulted in casualties on both sides and continues to threaten civilian safety. NOWTREND
About The Author
