Amid ongoing conflict with Iran
TACLOBAN CITY – Three mayors from the region are currently stranded in Israel amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, after they were caught in the conflict while attending an official study program on urban agriculture.
The local chief executives – Mayor Betty Cabal of Hindang, Leyte; Mayor Aron Balais of Barugo, Leyte; and Mayor Athene Mendros of Lawaan, Eastern Samar – have been staying in Shifayem, a coastal town known for its agricultural initiatives, since their arrival on June 8. They were originally scheduled to return to the Philippines on June 20.
The mayors are part of a delegation of local officials and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) personnel invited by the Israeli government to participate in the training.
According to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Regional Director Jose Nick Mendros, husband of Mayor Mendros, the delegation is under tight security at their venue.
“The mayor was invited by the Israeli government for a study group on urban agriculture. While they were there, the conflict between Iran and Israel escalated. Every time there is a warning, they have to stay inside a bunker,” Mendros said in an online interview on Sunday, June 15.
“Their activities are ongoing, but all airports in Israel remain closed,” he added.
Mendros also shared that the group may soon be transferred to Netanya City, located roughly 10 kilometers from Shifayem, where further safety measures are in place. Both the Israeli government and the Philippine Embassy are closely monitoring their status and providing support.
Despite ongoing security, anxiety remains high.
“We are not used to this kind of situation. I’m praying that the tension deescalates soon so Mayor can return home to the Philippines,” Mendros said.
In a brief online message, Mayor Balais also expressed concern and called for prayers:
“Thank you, and just pray for us,” he said.
The Iran-Israel conflict has intensified in recent weeks following a series of retaliatory airstrikes and diplomatic clashes, prompting international concern, flight disruptions, and elevated security alerts throughout the region.
JOEY A. GABIETA
