Phl to send new peacekeeping contingent to Golan Heights

MANILA, Philippines - Another contingent of Filipino peacekeeping troops will be sent to the Golan Heights in Syria in December.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the United Nations has agreed to enhance protective measures to ensure the safety of Filipino peacekeepers.

“We also asked them to give additional protection to our troops like equipment for chemical warfare,” he said. “These have been addressed.” 

These measures include the filling in of the full strength of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) of 1,250 soldiers, he added.

Defense Assistant Secretary Raymond Quilop said another condition that the government had sought was the regular assessment of the security situation in the Golan Heights.

“For example, within the next six months, if the situation deteriorates, there is a possibility of a pullout.