PH verifying if 14 Filipinos were recruited by Russia in its war vs. Ukraine

MANILA – The Philippines is verifying reports of 14 Filipinos reportedly recruited by Russia for its war against Ukraine, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Friday.

In a statement, spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said the DFA is aware of reports involving nationals who may have been enlisted in foreign armed forces and is coordinating closely with its foreign service posts.

“The Department's priority is the safety and welfare of Filipinos,” she said.

“Where appropriate, the Philippine Government remains ready to provide consular assistance consistent with Philippine law, international practice, and applicable regulations of the host country,” she added.

The DFA, meanwhile, told Filipino job seekers anew to take caution when accepting overseas employment offers and to verify the legitimacy of recruiters and employers, particularly where there may be a risk of recruitment into foreign armed forces.

At a virtual press conference hosted by the European Union on Wednesday, Malaysia-based security consultancy Chasseur Group executive director Munira Mustaffa said 14 Filipinos have so far been reported recruited by Russia to fight in the war, citing data from the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

Mustaffa said one was killed while another is a prisoner of war.

-Philippine News Agency