The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has officially confirmed that no Filipino citizens were harmed or involved in a series of devastating attacks targeting American diplomatic and logistics facilities at Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. This critical update brings relief to the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) community and their families back home, who had been anxiously monitoring the situation.
Details of the Coordinated Assault
According to detailed reports from Iraqi security officials, the attacks occurred on March 22, 2026, and involved eight separate, precisely coordinated strikes. Iran utilized a combination of advanced missiles and drones to target the US facilities, resulting in significant structural damage to several parts of the buildings. The assault has been described as one of the most intense in recent months, highlighting escalating tensions in the region.
Immediate Aftermath and Airspace Closure
In response to the severe security threat, the Civil Aviation Authority of Iraq took the unprecedented step of closing the country's airspace. This closure is set to remain in effect until April 2, 2026, disrupting international flights and causing logistical challenges for travelers and cargo operations. The DFA is actively monitoring the situation and has advised Filipinos in Iraq to exercise extreme caution, avoid non-essential travel, and stay updated through official channels.
The agency emphasized that while no Filipinos were affected this time, the volatile environment necessitates heightened vigilance. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of all OFWs, urging those in conflict-prone areas to register with the Philippine embassy for timely assistance and updates.
