President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. spoke with Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, to reaffirm the Philippines’ support for the Emirati people amid rising tensions in the Gulf.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the call took place on Friday, March 6. 

Marcos expressed confidence in the UAE government’s ability to protect all residents, including the nearly one million Filipinos living in the country.

The President also expressed hope that the current hostilities would resolve quickly and that stability would be restored in the region.

The conversation comes as several Middle Eastern countries remain on high alert following a series of attacks involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

The UAE hosts one of the largest Filipino communities abroad, with many employed in healthcare, construction, hospitality, and household services.

Marcos and President Mohamed previously met during the Philippine leader’s working visit to the UAE in January, where they discussed ways to strengthen economic, trade, and sustainability partnerships.

Looking ahead, Marcos is scheduled to deliver the Philippines’ call for restraint and adherence to international law during his upcoming visit to the United Nations headquarters in New York City.

-Paraluman News