DFA: No need to evacuate Filipinos in Hong Kong at this time

Airport security personnel look on as protesters using luggage trolleys to block the departure gates during a demonstration at the Airport in Hong Kong, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it does not see the need to evacuate Filipinos in Hong Kong “at this time” amid protests there.

The foreign affairs department debunked false reports circulating on social media and said that Filipinos in Hong Kong remain safe and are “largely unaffected” by the protests.

They also advised those seeking  information on the situation of Filipinos in Hong Kong to visit the Consulate’s website for updates and advisories rather than “turning to questionable sources of information in the social media.”

“The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong is closely monitoring the situation and is taking every step to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our nationals there,” it said in an advisory Friday night.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) earlier reminded Filipinos in Hong Kong to stay indoors and stay away from venues of protests.

Filipinos are also advised to avoid wearing black or white-colored upper garments while on the streets to avoid being mistaken as protesters.

Edited by MUF