In light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
On Wednesday, March 4, John Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio, the chairman of Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), issued an advisory for members of the national teams, athletes, and sports personnel.
Specifically, the notice concerns their international travel, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could have an impact on known intetnational air routes and transportation corridors.
In line with that, the PSC chairman said that the commission discourages the above-mentioned groups from undertaking non-essential travel abroad at this time.
“The evolving situation raises heightened safety and security concerns, including possible regional escalation, increased military activity, and rapidly changing security conditions, as already experienced by several teams abroad that are currently being assisted in arranging their return home,” the statement furthered.
The PSC then said that National Sports Associations, team officials, and athletes are advised to either reassess or postpone their planned overseas travel on the basis of risk, safety, and necessity.
“The PSC continues to monitor developments and will issue further updates as needed. The safety and welfare of our athletes remain our highest priority,” the statement ended.”
The ongoing and escalating situation in the Middle East arose after the joint strike of the United States of America and Israel on Iran, which was given the name “Operation Epic Fury,” last Saturday, February 28 and led to the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
That has since led to retaliatory action from Iran on Israel, as well as other countries in the Middle East, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
