The Department of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its call to Filipinos in Myanmar to leave the Southeast Asian country as threats and violence are expected to worsen following the execution of four opposition leaders recently.
In a statement, the DFA said it maintains the Alert Level 4” advisory in Myanmar which means that the “Philippine Government undertakes mandatory evacuation procedures.”
The DFA has been asking the OFWs in Myanmar to leave the country since May 6, 2021, three months after the military took over power.
A total of 701 Filipinos have repatriated from Myanmar since May. Still, there are around 460 Filipinos in Myanmar who still refused to leave the country.
“The DFA acknowledges the concerns of OFWs wishing to return to Myanmar despite the uncertainty and danger posed by the ongoing crisis. However, the safety and security of every single Filipino overseas remains the top priority of the Philippine government.
“To protect the lives of our fellow Filipinos abroad, Alert Level 4 will therefore remain in place in Myanmar until further notice. The DFA is continuously assessing the situation and the corresponding alert level, as well as responding to the particular needs of the remaining Filipino community,” the DFA said.
Filipinos who are still in Myanmar are advised to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and prepare for evacuation.
“Muli po ang aming panawagan na patuloy na maging alisto, mapagmatyag at maingat… Hanggang maaari ay iwasan po natin ang paglabas o ipagpaliban muna ang mga importeng lakad,” the Philippine Embassy in Yangon posted in its Facebook Page.
Filipinos in Myanmar in need of assistance may contact the Philippine Embassy in
Yangon, Myanmar through email (yangon.pe@dfa.gov.ph), telephone (+959985210991 /+959250765938) or Facebook (@PHinMyanmar)