PH following developments on Myanmar coup with ‘deep concern’ – DFA

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is following with “deep concern” the situation in Myanmar, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.

The government, the DFA added, is “especially concerned” with the safety of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was detained, along with other officials, by Myanmar’s military in an apparent coup.

“The Philippine government is following with deep concern the developing situation in Myanmar, and is especially concerned with the safety of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi,” the DFA said in a statement.

“Myanmar has made substantial and important strides toward democratization in recent years. The Philippines has supported these efforts,” it added.

On Monday, Myanmar’s military declared a state of emergency for a year after it detained Suu Kyi and other senior government officials, saying “stability” of the state was needed after alleged irregularities in the November election won by Suu Kyi’s National League for Democratic party.

The DFA, meanwhile, reiterated its advice to the Filipino community there to exercise caution and monitor developments through reputable sources.

It also urged Filipinos in Myanmar to “observe the guidance of local authorities.”

The DFA said Filipinos could reach out to the following numbers in case of an emergency:

Tel. Nos.: (+95-1) 558-149 to 151

Fax Nos.: (+95-1) 558-154

Duty Officer No.:(+95-9) 2507-65938

Email: [email protected]

Filipinos in Myanmar can also contact the DFA Office of Migrant Workers Affairs through the following numbers:

Tel. Nos.: (+63-2) 8 834-4996

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

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