In light of the state of emergency that was declared in Pakistan, President Arroyo ordered DFA to make certain the wellbeing and protection of Filipinos in Pakistan by closely monitoring the developments.

“The embassy has been instructed to take immediate steps, including the establishment of communication hotlines with the Filipino communities there, and to assess and recommend further measures that may be taken to ensure their safety,” Presidential Spokesman, Bunye said.

He said there are some 3,000 Filipinos now based in Pakistan, although the POEA said no Filipinos work there. DFA and the OWWA) are in charge of handling the possible repatriation and evacuation of OFWs.