PH welcomes Afghan refugees
THE Philippines welcomed the first Afghan refugees to Manila, who fled their homeland to escape the Taliban rule after the group took control of the Islamic State several weeks ago.
This was confirmed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. on his official Twitter Account saying “We stay steady where others waver: Tonight we welcome Afghan nationals including women & kids seeking refuge. Our doors are open to those fleeing, conflict, persecution, sexual abuse and death.”
United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustoavo Gonzalez in a tweet thanked the Philippines for accepting the Afghan refugees.
“Another demonstration of the long-standing solidarity of Filipino people. Thank you @teddyboylocsin for welcoming Afghan nationals seeking protection. @UNPhilippines remains ready to facilitate any additional requirement,“ Gonzalez tweeted.
Locsin said no further information will be provided to the public for the refugees’ safety and privacy.
“The matter is closed. We’re not interested in publicity or thanks. This is done so one can look at himself in the mirror. Period,” Locsin said.
On August 17, Malacañang said the Philippines’ doors are open to Afghan nationals fleeing Afghanistan. Earlier, Locsin also said the country will only accept refugees on a government-to-government basis. “We will not entertain any request for asylum coming from NGOs, however well-meaning or reputable, or any other non-state parties.
“I predict that refugees will be the next lucrative order of business, having plenty of cash in hand or in foreign bank accounts. The temptation will be resistible to help them and help oneself to them. That will never happen under this administration or in my watch,” Locsin said.
