Filipinos near India-Pakistan border have been urged by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) to steer clear of danger zones amid escalating military tensions.
The warning follows a series of missile strikes by India on Pakistan-administered Kashmir in retaliation for an April 22 terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives.
CFO Chairperson Dante Ang II reported that there are 371 permanent Filipino migrants in India and 77 in Pakistan, and advised those living in border provinces to avoid high-risk areas and remain vigilant as hostilities intensify between the two nuclear-armed nations.
The Philippine Embassy in New Delhi also issued a travel advisory discouraging travel to Bhimber City, Azad Kashmir, the Sialkot Line of Control, and any location within five miles of the border.
Filipinos in these areas are advised to stay indoors, prepare essential documents and emergency supplies, and keep communication lines open with the embassy and their employers.
This move comes amid India’s launch of “Operation Sindoor,” targeting alleged militant camps in Azad Kashmir reportedly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Philippine Ambassador to India Josel Ignacio assured that contingency plans are in place in case the conflict escalates further.
The CFO and the Department of Foreign Affairs continue to coordinate closely with Filipino communities in affected areas to ensure their safety.