The National Security Council and the Department of National Defense on Monday assured the public that there is no direct threat to the Philippines stemming from the ongoing hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran.

NSC Director General and spokesperson Ret. Army Gen. Cornelio Valencia said tensions remain confined to the Middle East.

"At this time, tensions remain confined to the region, and there is no verified direct threat to Philippine territory, including our military facilities," Valencia said.

"The National Security Council (NSC), in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Department of National Defense (DND), and other concerned agencies, continues to closely monitor developments in the Middle East," he added.

Valencia also clarified that the nine sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement should not be regarded as American military bases.

"There are no American military bases in the Philippines. The sites referred to under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) are Philippine military bases that remain under the full ownership, control, and management of the Armed Forces of the Philippines," he said.

"We urge the public to remain calm, exercise discernment, and be vigilant against disinformation," Valencia added.

Meanwhile, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong rejected calls by Sen. Erwin Tulfo to review EDCA sites over concerns they could be targeted amid escalating tensions.

"The DND respects the oversight role of the Philippine Senate and we will always cooperate with them. It must be stated, however, that the hostilities are confined to the Middle East. The Philippines is not a participant in the theater of conflict. As such, there is no credible direct threat to the Philippines or facilities therein. Iran launched attacks on US facilities in countries that it shares maritime or land borders with," Andolong said.

"The Philippines poses no threat to Iran. Our EDCA Sites are Philippine facilities. They do not belong to the US nor are they being used to launch or stage assaults against another country. They are for joint training, HADR (humanitarian assistance and disaster response) and the DEFENSE and SECURITY of our country. They fulfill an important role in the capacity and capability building of the AFP," he added.

Andolong also cited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s earlier statement that EDCA sites “will not be used for offensive action.”

"It is also worth noting that the Philippines’ strategic relevance in the region is shaped by geography — particularly in the context of developments in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait — regardless of EDCA. Strengthening alliances and improving our defense posture does not create vulnerability; it contributes to deterrence, preparedness, and stability," Andolong said.

"We encourage the public to remain discerning and to rely on verified information. Security matters require calm assessment, not speculation. The AFP remains focused on its mandate: defending our sovereignty, ensuring territorial integrity, and contributing to regional peace and stability," he added.