DFA urges Filipinos in Syria to stay in touch with embassy as Assad regime falls

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs has advised Filipinos in Syria to stay in contact with the embassy in Damascus following the reported fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. The DFA expressed concern for the safety of its citizens. Syrian rebels have claimed control of Damascus, marking the end of Assad's 24-year rule. Reports indicate that Assad fled the capital, and thousands celebrated in the streets, chanting for freedom. The rebels are now focusing on operations against remaining government forces and have reportedly freed prisoners from a jail near Damascus. The situation is evolving, with significant implications for regional power dynamics.