MANILA, Philippines, Oct 25, (Agencies): The Philippine government expressed deep concern for the safety of 136 Filipinos in Gaza due to the escalating Israeli airstrikes and the blockade, which have made evacuations impossible.

The Gaza Strip has witnessed a devastating death toll, surpassing 5,790 since October 7 when Israel commenced its bombardment following an attack on Israel by Hamas, the Gaza-based militant group. Tragically, over 60 percent of the casualties are women and children, as reported by Gaza's Ministry of Health, with over 16,290 people sustaining injuries. Many others are unaccounted for, buried beneath the rubble, as rescue efforts face severe challenges.

The Philippine government has successfully evacuated some of its nationals from Israel, but evacuating those in Gaza remains a challenge, primarily because Israel has not permitted the passage of foreign nationals through the Rafah crossing into Egypt.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega voiced his concern, saying, "Our main concern now is the Filipinos in Gaza because they're the ones under a humanitarian crisis. One hundred thirty-six are still there."

These Filipinos are primarily overseas workers and individuals married to Palestinians. While the authorities in Manila aim to evacuate all of them, De Vega acknowledged that many may opt to stay with their Palestinian spouses. He estimated that around 70 out of the 136 Filipinos might choose to register for evacuation, but he also pointed out that some Filipinos believe they should remain in Gaza to show solidarity with their Palestinian spouses.

Recent days have seen an increase in Israeli airstrikes targeting residential buildings and hospitals, resulting in a high daily death toll. This comes despite repeated international calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian access. Israel has also intensified its 16-year blockade of Gaza, cutting off power, water, food, fuel, and medicine supplies, affecting the 2.3 million people living in the enclave.

The Philippine government respects the choices of those who decide to stay, even though the situation in Gaza is deteriorating. De Vega added, "We'll see what we can do to help them given that there's a blockade. Our Filipino kababayans (countrymen) are resilient. They know what to do."