"The public will be informed of further developments."
Manila (ANTARA News/PNA-OANA) - Filipinos were advised by the Philippine government against travelling to Gaza and some parts of Israel amid escalating violence between Israeli troops and Hamas militants.

"Due to the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises Filipinos to defer travel to Gaza and Central and Southern Israel," the DFA said in a travel advisory. "The public will be informed of further developments."

Earlier, the DFA said at least 78 Filipinos in Hamas-controlled Gaza have expressed intention to leave the area.

However, Foreign Affairs Spokesman Raul Hernandez said the government would have to ascertain if they still wish to be removed from Gaza now that a ceasefire is in place.

Of the 78, 27 asked to be repatriated to the Philippines, 43 sought relocation and eight have signed up to be moved out of Gaza if the conflict worsens.

There is an estimated 120 Filipinos living in Gaza, almost all of them married to Palestinians and are long-time residents there.

Conflict between the Jewish state and the Palestinian territory has long existed.

Israel launched a military strike in Gaza on Nov. 14, 2012, in an offensive dubbed as Operation Pillar of Defense, following days of rocket attacks from Gaza.

The assault resulted in the assassination of Hamas military commander Ahmad Jabari, who had long been on Israel`s most wanted list for several deadly attacks and the kidnapping of Israeli soldier Gilad Schalit in 2006.

The embassy said there has been "wide international support and understanding for the necessary use of force by Israel in order to stop the rockets."

This international legitimacy, it said, "is important if the need arises in the future for Israel once again to defend itself militarily."

As it called for calm between Israel and Hamas, Manila hopes the ceasefire will be maintained by the two sides.

"Hopefully it will hold for the region and welfare and safety of our people," Hernandez said.
(U.H-AK)

Reporter: By Michaela Del Callar
Editor: Priyambodo RH
Copyright © ANTARA 2012