THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday welcomed the landmark peace agreement between Israel and Hamas, describing it as a ‘monumental step’ toward de-escalation and lasting peace in the Middle East.
In its official statement, the DFA said the breakthrough offers renewed hope for civilians caught in the conflict, especially hostages and the people of Gaza.
‘We welcome this breakthrough and congratulate the peacemakers,’ the DFA said, commending the sustained diplomatic efforts of the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. ‘Their persistence has brought about the necessary pause in hostilities and secured the release of hostages.’
The DFA emphasized the significance of the peace deal for the safety and welfare of the estimated two million Filipinos living across the region, as well as thousands of Filipino seafarers who regularly transit its strategic waters.
The department also cited the impact of maritime violence linked to the conflict.
Following Israel’s retaliatory strikes on Gaza, Houthi rebels launched sympathetic attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden targeting Israeli-linked vessels. In at least four major incidents since November 2023, 89 Filipino seafarers were affected.
Of those, four were confirmed dead, two remain missing, and 26 were taken hostage before being released. The remaining 57 were safely rescued or repatriated.
‘The Philippines hopes this initial step will usher in long-term peace and stability in the region,’ the DFA said, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Filipino lives and livelihoods amid geopolitical shifts.
The peace plan, announced earlier this week, includes a phased ceasefire, the release of hostages and prisoners, and a coordinated surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Mediators have described it as the most significant diplomatic development since the war erupted in October 2023.
The Middle East remains a vital region for the Philippines-not only for its maritime routes but also for its large Filipino workforce. Over 865,000 Filipinos reside in Saudi Arabia, 700,000 in the United Arab Emirates, and tens of thousands more in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Israel, working in healthcare, construction, hospitality, and domestic services.
The DFA reiterated its support for international efforts that uphold human dignity, protect civilians, and foster inclusive recovery and regional stability.