With tensions in the Middle East continuing to intensify, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has advised national teams and athletes to limit international travel, particularly to countries within or near the conflict zone.
In an advisory released Wednesday, PSC chairman Pato Gregorio called on athletes, coaches, and sports officials to refrain from non-essential trips abroad while the situation remains volatile.
“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,” Gregorio said.
The advisory comes after several travel disruptions linked to the ongoing hostilities in the region, including airspace closures and flight cancellations that have stranded travelers across multiple countries. Gregorio noted that some Filipino athletes had already encountered difficulties returning home due to these disruptions.
Among those affected was the Philippine chess team that recently competed in the Russian Chess Crown Standard A Tournament in Moscow. The squad, led by bronze medalist Mark Bacojo—who also secured his first grandmaster norm during the event—was unable to immediately return to the Philippines after their connecting flight through Abu Dhabi was canceled following the closure of the United Arab Emirates’ airspace.
The PSC intervened to assist the team, eventually securing an alternate route that allowed the players to fly back to Manila on Tuesday.
The National Chess Federation of the Philippines expressed its gratitude for the swift response of the PSC leadership.
“We extend our profound appreciation to PSC Chairman Hon. John Patrick C. Gregorio for his leadership and prompt attention to the matter. Our heartfelt thanks as well to Commissioner-in-Charge Hon. Edward L. Hayco for closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that solutions were acted upon without delay, together with Ma’am Anna Faye Lee, Executive Assistant, for her invaluable assistance in facilitating the reroute arrangements and closely coordinating the necessary travel adjustments. We are equally grateful to Atty. Guillermo B. Iroy, Executive Director, whose coordination and behind-the-scenes efforts greatly facilitated the rerouting arrangements,” the federation said in a statement.
With the situation in the Middle East still evolving, Gregorio urged all national sports associations to carefully review their scheduled international competitions and training trips.
“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 chief said in his memo.
He added that the commission will continue to closely monitor developments and release further advisories if necessary, emphasizing that the safety and welfare of Filipino athletes remain the agency’s top priority.