Manila, June 23 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday assured the public that the government is acting with urgency to ensure the safety and repatriation of Filipinos in Israel and Iran, following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In a recorded message, Marcos said the government has raised Alert Level 3 in both countries, activating the voluntary repatriation program.

Marcos said Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac is in Amman, Jordan to receive the first batch of 26 repatriates from Israel at the King Hussein Crossing.

"We have already provided food packs and financial help to our kababayans. Many are staying in our Migrant Workers Office hostel, with more space ready should it be needed," he...