More Filipinos Expected to Exit Israel via Jordan Amid Regional Conflict

 As tensions in the Middle East continue into a seventh day, the Philippine Embassy in Amman reports that more Filipinos are expected to cross from Israel into Jordan in the coming days.

Philippine Ambassador to Jordan Wilfredo Santos said they are preparing for a possible increase in Filipino nationals transiting through the Jordanian border as hostilities in the region persist.

“While it’s too early to estimate the total number of Filipinos planning to exit through Jordan, we’re ready to receive more in the coming days,” said Santos in a statement to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

First Group Already Crossed Border

On June 18, the Philippine Embassy in Amman welcomed the first batch of 21 Filipino nationals who were in Israel on official visits sponsored by the Israeli government. The group included mayors, vice mayors, party-list lawmakers, and officials from the Department of Agriculture, among others. They crossed into Jordan safely and are scheduled to fly back to the Philippines shortly.

Repatriation Efforts Ongoing

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), 26 out of 179 Filipinos who requested repatriation have been cleared for departure from Israel. The Philippine government continues to assist Filipinos seeking to leave the conflict zone, including both overseas workers and tourists.

Filipinos exiting through Jordan must obtain a transit visa, which is being coordinated by the Philippine embassies in both Tel Aviv and Amman. Once in Jordan, they are expected to leave within 48 to 72 hours, as required by the host country's immigration rules.

“While the actual distance between Israel and Jordan is short, border crossing can be time-consuming due to the influx of evacuees and the limited hours of operation,” Santos noted.

 

 

Context of the Conflict

The exodus follows a series of escalating attacks between Israel and Iran. Israel launched a military offensive targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and high-ranking officials, prompting deadly retaliatory airstrikes across Israeli territory, including Tel Aviv.

Despite the challenges, Ambassador Santos assured that coordination with Jordanian authorities and other government agencies remains active to ensure the safe and orderly return of affected Filipinos.

Missing OFW in Saudi Arabia Found Dead After Hit-and-Run Incident

An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was reported missing for several days has been confirmed dead following a hit-and-run accident in Saudi Arabia, officials reported.

The victim, Juljirri Aggong, had been missing for four days before authorities confirmed that he died after being struck by a vehicle on June 11 at 12:31 p.m. along King Salman Road Eastbound in Riyadh. The incident occurred at a non-designated pedestrian crossing, according to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan.

The vehicle involved has already been identified, including its license plate number and driver. Legal efforts are underway to obtain CCTV footage to support the investigation. A lawyer assigned by OWWA in Riyadh is currently handling the case to seek justice for Aggong.

Family Seeks Justice

Aggong’s cousin, Mhaie Aggong, appealed for justice, saying,

“We are not asking for much — just justice. This cannot just become another forgotten story.”

He added that failing to act could set a dangerous precedent for other Filipino workers in the region.

Aggong, originally from Jolo, Sulu, was the eldest of his siblings and had only been working in Riyadh for six months as an office and facility cleaner. His motivation to work abroad was to support his family back home.

As per Islamic customs, his family has decided he will be laid to rest in Riyadh.

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Over 20 Filipino Officials Remain in Israel Amid Escalating Tensions

At least 22 Filipino nationals on official travel have remained in Israel amid the country’s ongoing conflict with Iran, according to Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss.

Among those currently in Israel are 17 local government officials participating in a scheduled agricultural training program and four specialists from the Department of Agriculture conducting a study on dairy farming.

“They are safe and being cared for,” Ambassador Fluss assured in a press briefing. “They have access to food, lodging, and any support they may need. The situation is obviously difficult, but they’re coping well.”

The training program, which began on June 10, was originally set to conclude by June 20. However, due to recent airstrikes and the closure of Israeli airspace for safety, their return to the Philippines has been delayed.

Repatriation Efforts Underway

The Israeli government, in coordination with the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), is currently exploring alternative exit routes to repatriate the Filipino delegates.

Fluss emphasized the complexity of the process, citing coordination between multiple governments and the ongoing security challenges. “It’s not just a matter of booking a flight. Safety protocols must be followed, and international coordination is key,” he said.

House of Representatives Monitoring the Situation

The Philippine House of Representatives confirmed it is coordinating closely with the DFA to verify if any of its members are currently in Israel. Although two lawmakers—Rep. Florida Robes of San Jose del Monte City and Rep. Lianda Bolilia of Batangas—initially requested travel clearance, both have since canceled their trips.

While there is no official confirmation of other House members currently in Israel, the possibility remains that some may have included the country in transit during international travel.

Commitment to Filipino Safety

Ambassador Fluss reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to protecting all individuals within its borders, including foreign nationals. He confirmed that any Filipinos injured in the conflict would receive full medical support and compensation.

“The Israeli government treats all individuals equally, whether they are citizens or foreign visitors. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone in the country,” Fluss stated.

Open Communication Between Nations

Fluss also highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Israel and the Philippines, describing it as a “constructive and friendly alliance.” He said both governments continue to work together to ensure the well-being of all Filipinos in Israel.

Although the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv is temporarily closed due to military protocols, Filipino nationals in Israel may contact the following emergency hotlines:

• Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv: +972 54-4661188

• Migrant Workers’ Office: +972 50-7622590

• Overseas Welfare Office: +972 50-7156937

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DOH Eases Public Concern as All Mpox Cases in PH Remain Mild

The Department of Health (DOH) reassured the public on Tuesday that all reported cases of monkeypox (Mpox) in the Philippines remain mild and non-life-threatening. Officials confirmed that the country has not recorded any cases linked to the more severe variant of the virus.

“There has been no shift in the current status. All confirmed Mpox cases involve the milder Clade II strain, which typically resolves on its own,” stated Assistant Secretary and DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo. “We have not detected any cases of the more dangerous Clade Ib strain, which is known to have higher mortality.”

Domingo noted that local government units (LGUs) have successfully tracked and documented all Mpox cases. Although the number of suspected, probable, and confirmed cases was higher in 2024 than in 2025 so far, all incidents have been thoroughly accounted for.

The DOH emphasized that Mpox is primarily spread through close physical contact, particularly during intimate or sexual interactions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Mpox as a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). Common symptoms include skin rashes, swollen lymph nodes, fever, muscle pain, sore throat, headaches, and fatigue.

While most individuals recover within two to four weeks, those with compromised immune systems may face a higher risk of severe illness, the WHO added.

The DOH continues to monitor the situation closely and advises the public to maintain proper hygiene, report symptoms promptly, and avoid close contact with individuals showing signs of infection.

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Impeachment of VP Sara Duterte Presses On Despite Senate Setback, Say House Prosecutors

Philippine House prosecutors insisted Wednesday that the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte will move forward, despite the Senate returning the case for further review just hours after convening as an impeachment court.

During a press conference, House representatives emphasized that their actions complied with constitutional mandates and called the Senate’s recent directives “confusing.” They also confirmed plans to seek formal clarification.

Vice President Duterte was impeached earlier this year over accusations involving corruption, abuse of power, and an alleged assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., her former political ally.

If convicted, Duterte faces removal from office and permanent disqualification from holding public office in the future.

“This process cannot be halted anymore. The impeachment court has already taken jurisdiction,” stated Congresswoman Gerville Luistro, citing the Senate's issuance of a summons to Duterte late Wednesday as a clear sign of progress. “The House cannot withdraw the impeachment case—it’s not permitted under the Constitution.”

On Tuesday night, the Senate voted 18-5 to remand the case back to the House, asking it to verify that no constitutional violation had occurred by considering three impeachment complaints before settling on one. Under the Philippine Constitution, a public official can only be subjected to impeachment once within a 12-month period.

Representative Ysabel Maria Zamora defended the process, explaining that the final impeachment complaint combined elements from the earlier ones into a single, unified case.

The Senate also demanded guarantees that the trial would continue after new lawmakers take office on June 30. House prosecutors dismissed this as impractical, arguing they cannot commit future legislators to current proceedings.

Senate Vote Seen as Political Strategy

Former senator and human rights lawyer Leila de Lima commented that the Senate’s actions were likely influenced by political calculation, describing it as a move for “political survival.”

“The Dutertes remain a powerful political force—even with the former president detained by the ICC,” she said. “Some senators may be protecting their future electoral interests.”

Rodrigo Duterte, Sara's father and former president, is currently in custody at The Hague, facing charges related to the war on drugs during his administration.

Many believe Sara Duterte remains a strong contender for the presidency in 2028, which makes the outcome of her impeachment all the more politically charged.

Congresswoman France Castro echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Senate appears to be shielding their own political ambitions.”

When asked if he thought the Senate was intentionally slowing the process, Congressman Keith Flores didn’t mince words: “I can’t speak for all, but personally, yes—I believe so.”

BINI Unveils New Tour Single ‘Shagidi’ Inspired by Filipino Childhood Game

 P-pop girl group BINI has dropped a fresh single titled “Shagidi” during the North American leg of their BINIverse World Tour. The track is rooted in a classic Filipino children’s game, adding a playful and nostalgic touch to their upbeat music style.

This lively dance anthem blends elements of global pop with Filipino cultural references and was born out of a songwriting camp hosted by ABS-CBN Music in Davao last year. The camp featured collaboration between international producers and Filipino talents, including Angela Ken, Angia Laurel, and Maymay Entrata.

The concept for “Shagidi” emerged spontaneously when participants started playing “Shagidi Shapopo,” a childhood game, during the camp — an impromptu moment that was caught on video and eventually evolved into the song. The track was co-written by Marqueze Parker, Tommy Brown, Courtlin Jabrae, JBach, and Angela Ken. BINI member Maloi designed the single’s cover art.

“Shagidi” follows the group’s recent releases, including their comeback single “Blink Twice” and the performance video for “Zero Pressure.” BINI also introduced their first variety program, BINIversus, now streaming on their official YouTube channel.

As part of their international outreach, the group continues to perform across major cities in the United States.

— Daily Kwento

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Escudero: 20th Congress to Decide on VP Sara Duterte's Impeachment Trial

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero clarified that the responsibility of deciding whether to proceed with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte now lies with the incoming 20th Congress.

The 20th Congress is set to open on July 28, coinciding with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.'s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). Escudero noted that with only six plenary sessions left before the 19th Congress adjourns on June 13, it will be up to the newly convened legislative body to take action, starting July 29.

He emphasized that any decision made by the 19th Congress cannot dictate the course for the next Congress. The 20th Congress will have the autonomy to either move forward with or dismiss the impeachment trial through a formal vote or even by choosing not to act.

"The 19th Congress may decide to proceed, but the 20th can choose to halt it. The plenary's decision is always supreme, regardless of who holds leadership roles in the Senate or House," Escudero explained.

Political Affiliations and Impartiality

Five senators endorsed by PDP-Laban, chaired by former President Rodrigo Duterte—Sara Duterte's father—will be part of the 20th Congress: Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Bong Go, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, and Camille Villar. They will join Senator Robin Padilla, the current party president. Other senators are either independent or aligned with different political groups.

Escudero called on the incoming senators, who will serve as judges in the impeachment court, to remain impartial until the case has been fully heard. He noted that any decision to inhibit from the trial is voluntary and not subject to a vote.

Trial Schedule

When asked if the impeachment trial would begin on July 30 as scheduled, Escudero said that unless senators decide otherwise, it should proceed as planned. As per the proposed timeline, senator-judges will take their oaths on July 29 at 9:00 a.m., with the plenary session following in the afternoon. The trial is set to begin the next day, July 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Last week, Escudero postponed the reading of the impeachment charges from June 2 to June 11 to make room for pending legislative measures before the 19th Congress adjourns on June 14.

House Position

House Speaker Martin Romualdez acknowledged the Senate’s authority over the next steps. "The Senate President’s letter was clear. The impeachment case is already with the Senate, so it’s their decision how they proceed," he stated.

Constitutional Duty

Former senator and incoming ML party-list representative Leila de Lima argued that convening the impeachment court is not optional, as it is mandated by the Constitution. She expressed disappointment in Escudero’s remarks, saying they did not provide clarity or resolve doubts regarding whether the trial would proceed.

De Lima emphasized that the Constitution overrides all branches of government, including the legislature. She added that there is a clear obligation to pursue the trial in the interest of truth and accountability, urging senators not to pre-judge the case before reviewing the evidence.

“This isn’t about political persecution. There’s an accused and there should be a trial. That’s the duty of the court,” De Lima said, pointing out that evidence presented during House inquiries supports the impeachment.

She rejected comparisons to her own past legal troubles, which she described as politically motivated, unlike the current allegations against Duterte, which she said are based on solid grounds.

Impeachment Background

On February 5, the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte, with over 200 lawmakers endorsing the complaint. She faces accusations including betrayal of public trust, violating the Constitution, corruption, and other serious charges. The complaint stems largely from the alleged misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds and issuing threats against the President, First Lady, and Speaker Romualdez.

In response, Duterte expressed readiness for the trial, even referring to it as a “bloodbath,” which she later clarified to mean figuratively her own.

— Daily Kwento

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