The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) revealed on Friday that only 42 Filipinos from the second wave attempting to flee war-torn Gaza are en route to Cairo, Egypt, seeking safer grounds.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had initially reported that 56 Filipinos, accompanied by some Palestinian family members, successfully crossed into Egypt on Thursday. However, DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega disclosed that 14 Filipinos had to return to Gaza as their Palestinian relatives were denied entry by the Egyptian government.
“During their time on the Egyptian side, out of the 56 — only now did we find out, even the President found out just now — 14 of our fellow countrymen returned to Gaza. Why? Because their spouses didn’t make it through Egyptian control. So, we’re somewhat disappointed,” De Vega shared during an interview with CNN Philippines’ Balitaan.
He emphasized ongoing monitoring of those who chose to return to Gaza, expressing hope that they might join the forthcoming batch of Filipinos aiming to cross the Rafah border.
De Vega further noted that the 42 Filipinos in transit to Cairo could potentially arrive in the Philippines by Sunday or November 13.
In a parallel development, the first batch of Filipinos, comprising 34 individuals accompanied by a Palestinian spouse, is anticipated to land in the country on Friday afternoon.
Highlighting a glimmer of support in these challenging times, De Vega mentioned that each affected family had received monetary assistance amounting to $1,000.
The Philippine government remains vigilant, navigating the complexities of the situation as it strives to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens caught in the crossfire of the Gaza conflict.
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