PH raises alert level 2 in Myanmar amid rising tension due to military coup

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised Alert Level 2 in Myanmar in light of the “developing critical situation” there following a military power grab.

DFA said it raised the alert level in the Southeast Asian country as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Filipinos there.

The said alert level entails “restriction of non-essential movements, avoiding of places of protest, and preparation for possible evacuation,” DFA said in a statement Wednesday.

“Only returning workers with existing contracts shall be allowed to travel in Myanmar,” it added.

READ: Myanmar coup: Three weeks of protest turn deadly

DFA, meanwhile, renewed its advice to the Filipino community in Myanmar to exercise due caution, monitor developments through reputable sources, avoid places of protests, and observe the guidance of the Philippine Embassy in Yangon.

Based on DFA figures, there are 1,273 Filipinos in Myanmar as of June 2020.

Many Filipinos in Myanmar work in the manufacturing industry as supervisors while some also work for the United Nations agencies and other international organizations there, according to the DFA.

READ: PH embassy to take ‘drastic measures’ if Myanmar situation escalates

Last February 15, DFA repatriated 139 Filipinos from Myanmar in light of travel restrictions due to the pandemic. Another 55 Filipinos were flown home Wednesday afternoon in DFA’s 14th Covid-19 relief flight from the said country.

KGA