DFA probes report of Filipinos stranded in Peru amid protest actions 

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday said an investigation is ongoing about reports that there are a number of Filipinos possibly stranded in Peru following the ongoing protests and demonstrations there.

“It is investigating reports that a number of Filipino tourists may be stranded in Machu Picchu owing to closure of  the international airport in Cusco,” the DFA said in a statement, citing information from the Philippine Embassy in Santiago, Chile, the embassy with jurisdiction in Peru.

Machu Picchu, a site of ancient Inca ruins dating back to the 15th century, is a popular tourist destination in the South American country.

The DFA added that the Santiago embassy is closely monitoring the political and security situation in Peru.

Protests have erupted in the country after the ouster and arrest of former president Pedro Castillo, leaving seven people dead, according to Reuters.

Peru has announced the new 30-day state of emergency because of the unrest.

The DFA said there are some 160 overseas Filipinos working and residing in Peru.

JPV