The Philippines and Oman have expressed hope for the peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

During a meeting at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Omani Ambassador to the Philippines Nasser bin Said bin Abdullah Al Manwari raised concern over the rising tensions in the Gulf region.

“Both expressed hope that it will be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, and that lasting peace can be achieved,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement on Tuesday night.

At the start of the Middle East conflict, Oman immediately opened its borders to Filipinos seeking repatriation.

Marcos thanked Oman for extending assistance to displaced Filipinos in times of crisis.

“We recognize Oman’s support in the safe return of our seafarers and the assistance extended to our OFWs during difficult times. These partnerships make a real difference in protecting and supporting our kababayans (countrymen) abroad,” he said in a Facebook post.

Al Manwari reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to assist the Philippines and its citizens, as he emphasized the two nations’ close and strong ties.

Marcos expressed his intent to bolster Manila’s relations with Muscat, “especially in areas that matter to Filipinos.”

“We will keep building on this momentum, expanding opportunities, improving mobility, and opening more doors for Filipinos,” he said.

During the meeting, Marcos said he looks forward to the third investment forum with Oman in Manila, following the Gulf state’s successful hosting of the second conference with over 60 Philippine business leaders in Muscat in February 2026.

Bilateral relations between the Philippines and Oman have continued to strengthen in recent years, with several agreements signed and cooperation expanding across political, labor, and economic sectors.

Marcos thanked the Omani government for facilitating the release and repatriation of 17 Filipino seafarers in January 2025 and nine others in December 2025, who were all held hostage by the Houthis.

He also expressed gratitude to Oman for granting royal pardons to overseas Filipino workers.

Nearly 49,000 Filipinos are currently residing and working in Oman, data from the Department of Foreign Affairs showed.

The Philippines and Oman will mark the 46th anniversary of their bilateral relations this year, which were formally established on Oct. 6, 1980. (PNA)