Manila: Nine overseas Filipinos have safely returned to the Philippines after a successful evacuation out of Iran, said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday. This marks the first batch of Filipino nationals repatriated from Iran following the joint military operation launched by the United States and Israel against Tehran on February 28.

According to Philippines News Agency, the evacuation of the group took place between March 10 and 11. The Philippine Embassies in Iran and Trkiye played a crucial role in facilitating the group's land crossing and subsequent flight back to the Philippines, despite the ongoing security concerns in the region. The DFA emphasized its commitment to implementing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to assist overseas Filipinos and ensure their safe return home.

During a presentation at a House hearing, DFA Undersecretary for Migration Affairs Ezzedin Tago revealed that the agency has received a total of 327 repatriation requests from the Middle East as of March 10, with nine requests originating from Iran. Currently, it is estimated that around 800 Filipinos reside in Iran, most of whom are married to Iranian nationals.