MANILA, Philippines — Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) on Wednesday urged Philippine national teams and individual athletes to avoid non-essential travel.
According to the PSC, the situation raised “heightened safety and security concerns”, which was already experienced by several teams abroad.
Among the teams currently out of the country is the women’s ice hockey team that is currently playing in a tournament in Estonia.
“In view of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its potential impact on international air routes and transportation corridors, the Philippine Sports Commission strongly discourages national teams, athletes, and sports personnel from undertaking non-essential travel abroad at this time,” the PSC, through chairman Patrick Gregorio, said in an advisory.
“National Sports Associations, team officials, and athletes are advised to reassess or postpone planned overseas travel on the basis of risk, safety, and necessity. The PSC continues to monitor developments and will issue further updates as needed,” it added.
The PSC said the safety and welfare of athletes remains its highest priority.
