PH raises Alert Level 1 in Bangladesh amid civil unrest

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

In an advisory on Friday, the DFA warned that “security situation can deteriorate without warning”. (File photo by Lawrence Ruiz – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has placed Bangladesh under Crisis Alert Level 1 (Precautionary Phase) amid the riots and civil unrest in the country.

Student-led protests broke out in Bangladesh last month over quotas in government jobs, which have escalated into deadly clashes with the police killing more than 200 people.

In an advisory on Friday, the DFA warned that “security situation can deteriorate without warning”.

Under the alert level, Filipinos living in Bangladesh are strongly advised to do the following:

–Exercise precaution and restrict non-essential movement.

–Remain vigilant, monitor and follow guidelines set by local authorities.

–Always be in possession of valid passports and residence visas.

–If they have not done so, register their particulars with the Philippine Embassy in Dhaka.

The DFA said Filipinos in need of assistance may contact the Philippine Embassy in Dhaka via email address dhaka.pe@dfa.gov.ph or emergency hotline (+880) 190.540.0079 (SMS, Calls, Whatsapp & Viber).