DFA issues alert level 2 as Bangkok protests continue

By: Matikas Santos - 11 years ago

(AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

MANILA, Philippines – Alert level 2 has been raised in Thailand by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Thursday citing “threats to life, security, and property of Filipinos” as anti-government protests continue in the capital city of Bangkok.

“The DFA has raised the Alert Level from 1 (Precautionary Phase) to 2 (Restriction Phase) for Bangkok and surrounding areas which have been placed under a 60-day state of emergency by the Thai Government,” it said in a statement.

“Alert Level 2 is issued when there are real threats to the life, security, and property of Filipinos arising from internal disturbance or external threat,” DFA said.

Filipinos have been instructed to “restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places and prepare for evacuation.”

Bangkok has been under intense protests from anti-government demonstrators calling for the resignation of prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra due to allegations that she is a puppet of her brother, ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

“While there has been an effort to maintain a state of normalcy in the Thai capital, the situation remains fluid and volatile particularly in anti-government protest areas,” DFA said.

“The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok continues to advise Filipinos with essential travel plans to, and those residing in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand to avoid the rally sites and large gatherings and to refrain from taking part in the protest or other political activities,” it said.

Demonstrations have been held in major intersections and government offices in Bangkok by protesters with the aim of shutting down the government and pressure Yingluck to step down.

Yingluck has been accused of helping her brother to get out of corruption charges after being ousted by the military in 2006.

Supporters of the government have also staged their own rallies to express solidarity with political party of Yingluck. Previous clashes have erupted between the two sides.

An alleged grenade attack left at least 30 protesters injured during anti-government demonstrations last January 17.