DFA orders repatriation of Pinoys in Syria

MANILA, Philippines -  Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario has ordered the Philippine embassy in Damascus, Syria to start offering voluntary repatriation to Filipino workers in Daraa, Latakia and Homs in the Syrian capital.

Del Rosario visited Damascus over the weekend to assess the political situation in Syria and check the condition of 43 Filipinos who have taken shelter in the embassy.

Some 110 Filipinos are in Daraa, 2,400 in Latakia, and 1,600 in Homs, according to the DFA

Del Rosario met with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Al Muallem to relay the government’s appreciation for the continued safety of the estimated 17,000 Filipinos. Muallem told Del Rosario the Syrian government will restore political security and stability in the country.

Del Rosario and Muallem also discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Syria.

During his visit, Del Rosario also met with leaders of the Filipino community in Syria.

Del Rosario left for Syria early Friday morning with Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Rafael Seguis.

Del Rosario was met by Philippine Ambassador to Damascus Wilfredo Cuyugan and officers and staff of the Philippine embassy.

Del Rosario was briefed on the embassy’s contingency plans.

Del Rosario returned home yesterday afternoon.