DFA raises alert level in Sudan amid civil unrest

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised Alert Level 2, or the ”restriction phase,” in Sudan in light of the prevailing civil unrest in the country’s capital and other areas.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the DFA explained that Alert Level 2 is raised “if there are real threats to the lives, security, and properties of Filipinos due to instability in a particular country.”

“Filipinos who remain in the country where Alert Level 2 is in effect are advised to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and prepare for evacuation,” the DFA said.

The DFA said it raised Alert Level 2 last June 7.

The department also warned Filipinos not to travel to Sudan at this time due to the ongoing civil conflict.

The DFA said that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will only allow the return of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) if they have existing employment contracts and in consideration of other special circumstances.

Filipinos in Sudan in need assistance may reach the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, through telephone numbers (+202) 252-13062 or its Facebook Page, the DFA said.

They may also contact the Philippine Honorary Consul in Khartoum at (+249) 183-468717 or (+249) 183-468716.

Based on figures from the DFA, there are currently around 3,000 Filipinos living in Sudan.

The Associated Press earlier reported that a “violent crackdown” on “pro-democracy protesters and the dispersal of their peaceful sit-in” in the capital of Sudan had killed at least 60 people. (Editor: Eden Estopace)

READ: Sudanese protesters: Death toll in military crackdown at 60