DFA issues alert level 1 over Thailand unrest

Anti-government protesters fill the circle during a rally at the Victory Monument in Bangkok, Thailand Monday, Jan. 13, 2014. AP

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised alert level 1 in Thailand in light of the anti-government protests aiming to shutdown the capital city of Bangkok.

“Upon the recommendation of our Embassy in Bangkok, we have raised Alert Level 1 for the Filipino community in Thailand,” DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a press conference Tuesday.

“Alert level 1 is issued when there are valid signs of internal disturbance in the host country. Under Alert Level 1, all Filipinos in Thailand are advised to exercise vigilance and take necessary precautions,” he said.

Thousands of anti-government protesters are holding the second day of major rallies against the administration of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra with the aim of shutting down the capital city of Bangkok and to pressure her to step down.

International media report that protesters have trooped to government offices and blocked major road intersections.

The protests stemmed from allegations that Yingluck has been helping her brother, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, to get out of corruption charges after being ousted in a military coup in 2006.

Supporters of the administration, known as “red shirts,” have previously taken to the streets to show their solidarity with the present government.

Clashes have previously erupted between the two camps causing fatalities and injures.

“So far, despite the large numbers of demonstrators in the protest areas, the general situation in Bangkok remain peaceful and under control,” Hernandez said.

“The Embassy’s Inspection Team regularly goes around the Thai capital to take note of developments. The team’s latest report indicated that business and commercial activities are undisrupted and all modes of transportation remain operational,” he said.

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