Overseas Filipino workers (OFW) Kazakhstan have been advised by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) to coordinate with their employers or authorities if they feel they are already in danger amid the prevailing social unrest in the Central Asian nation.
POEA Administrator Bernard P. Olalia issued the advisory this week after a nationwide State of Emergency took effect in Kazakhstan earlier this month.
“The Philippine Embassy in Moscow may be reached through their hotline: +7(906)738-2538 for any concerns or emergencies,” Olalia said in Advisory No. 6, 2022.
Citing the report of the Philippine Embassy in Moscow, Olalia said Kazakhstan is currently embroiled with violent protests and riots, particularly in Almaty and the Mangystau regions after its government lifted the price cap for LPG.
To ensure the safety of OFWs in Kazakhstan, Olalia urged them to avoid joining any protest gathering in the streets.
“The Embassy advised the Filipino community in Kazakhstan to remain calm and vigilant and to maintain their neutrality and avoid participating in any gatherings or meetings that are concerned with the political situation of the said countries,” Olalia said.
There are an estimated 800 to 1,000 OFWs, who are staying in Kazakhstan.
Officials of the Philippine embassy earlier urged OFWs in Kazakhstan to prepare for possible evacuation in case the security situation there will worsen.