How the Philippines’ crisis alert system works

MANILA, Philippines – The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28, pushing the Middle East into a new conflict.

In times of conflict, the Philippines implements a crisis alert system, adopted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Labor and Employment, to serve as the basis for emergency repatriation and deployment restrictions. In consultation with the Department of Health, the DFA implements the same system in other instances like pandemics and other medical hazards.

The crisis alert system involves four levels — Alert Level 1 to Alert Level 4 — in accordance with established protocols on international relations. Depending on the crisis alert level, the DFA can issue travel advisories, which are notices on the current peace and order situation in specific destinations. The DFA can also impose or lift travel bans.

Here’s a guide on what the alert levels mean, according to the Migrants in Countries in Crisis Guidelines website, under the International Organization for Migration: 

Alert Level 1 (Precautionary Phase)

This is issued when there are signs of internal disturbance or instability, or when an external threat is limited to a specific area. Under this level, Filipinos are advised to take precautions and avoid non-essential movement. Those with travel plans to the affected country are advised to exercise normal caution and avoid affected areas. The concerned post establishes a Crisis Management Team.

Alert Level 2 (Restriction Phase)

This is issued when violence or instability spreads to neighboring areas or when an external attack becomes imminent. Filipinos are advised to shelter in place and avoid high-risk areas. Those planning to travel to the affected country are urged to exercise increased caution due to heightened security risks. The concerned post activates its contingency plan.

Alert Level 3 (Voluntary Repatriation Phase)

This is issued when unrest escalates significantly or when an external threat becomes imminent. Filipinos are advised to evacuate voluntarily through relocation or repatriation. Travel to the affected country is strongly discouraged due to serious risks to safety and security. The concerned post activates its contingency plan and coordinates relocation or repatriation efforts with relevant government agencies.

Alert Level 4 (Mandatory Evacuation Phase)

This is issued in cases of large-scale civil conflict or full-blown external attack. Filipinos are urged to evacuate and join government-led repatriation efforts. Travel to the affected country is prohibited. The concerned post fully implements its contingency plan and coordinates evacuation and repatriation operations.

Alongside the crisis alert system, the DFA urges Filipinos in affected areas in times of conflict to follow the advisories of their host governments and observe all relevant travel advisories.

Here are the current crisis alert levels in the Middle East as of March 2, as released by the DFA in response to the conflict in Iran. We will update this story page as the DFA updates the alert levels.

For contact details of Philippine diplomatic posts and help desks for Filipinos affected by the conflict, click here. – Rappler.com