The government maintained its travel advisory to Israel despite criticism from the said country, saying it has the duty to protect all its nationals wherever they may be.

This after the Israeli government criticized the Philippines temporary ban on the deployment of Filipino workers to Israel after conflict arose in the said country, particularly in Gaza.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said “The Philippine Government has the sovereign duty and prerogative to protect all its nationals wherever they may be, especially those caught in conflict areas.”

“No other State can substitute its judgment over that of the Philippine Government regarding the welfare of its own nationals,” it added. 

The DFA said it welcomes the ceasefire in Gaza and “hopes that this will usher in lasting peace and stability there.”

“In due time, the Alert Level for Israel and Gaza may be reviewed if the ceasefire continues to hold.”

Last November 20, the DFA issued Alert level 2 (Restriction Phase)  for Central and Southern Israel and Alert level 4 (Evacuation/Mandatory Repatriation) for Gaza. Under Alert Level 2, the deployment of new hires to Israel is suspended, while vacationing workers may return.

A Travel Advisory was also issued warning Filipinos against traveling to Gaza and to defer travel to Central and Southern Israel. 

The DFA said “There is no Travel Ban on Israel but travelers are advised to take necessary precaution.”*