Manila: The number of overseas Filipinos successfully repatriated by the Philippine government since the conflict in the Middle East began has reached 613, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced. These individuals are nationals who do not fall under the category of overseas Filipino workers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the majority of the repatriates, numbering around 264, came from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This was followed by 144 individuals from Qatar, 115 from Bahrain, and four from Jordan. Additionally, others were evacuated from countries with more tense security situations, such as Iraq, Israel, and Iran.

The DFA is currently processing the repatriation of 586 other Filipinos from various countries including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Bahrain, and Lebanon. The agency noted that transport operations in the UAE are under strain, with ongoing delays and schedule changes affecting air connectivity to and from the Gulf state.

In response to the situation, Dubai's Customs and Oman's General Administration of Customs have activated a 'green corridor' for sea and air shipments, aiming to accelerate customs processing and facilitate trade flows between the two countries. Meanwhile, distance learning is expected to continue across the UAE following the spring break.

The DFA assured that its foreign service posts abroad will continue to monitor developments in the region and provide necessary assistance to Filipinos within their jurisdiction.