Filipinos in SoKor urged to remain calm amid political crisis

In an advisory issued Wednesday morning, the Philippine Embassy in South Korea said it continues to monitor developments and will issue appropriate advisories. (Pexels Photo)

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Filipinos in South Korea are urged to remain calm and follow instructions issued by local authorities amid a political crisis after a short-lived martial law.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday night but lifted it early Wednesday after the parliament voted against it.

In an advisory issued Wednesday morning, the Philippine Embassy in South Korea said it continues to monitor developments and will issue appropriate advisories.

“Pinapayuhan ng Embahada ng Pilipinas sa Seoul ang lahat ng mga Pilipino sa bansang Korea na manatiling kalmado sa gitna ng mga mahahalagang kaganapan. Sumunod po sa mga abiso na ipapalabas ng mga autoridad ng bansang Korea (The Embassy advises Filipinos in Korea to remain calm amid the important developments in the country. Remember to follow the instructions that local authorities will issue),” it said.

Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega said the situation in South Korea is normal and there are no major street protests.

“(It’s) business as usual, schools are open, all forms of public transport are also open and airports operating. Embassies are open,” she said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency.

Yoon declared an emergency martial law at 10:23 p.m. Tuesday (local time) as he accused the opposition of “anti-state” activities.

After the National Assembly voted to revoke the martial law past 1 a.m. Wednesday, he lifted the decree and withdrew the troops stationed at the Assembly compound.

Yoon’s move have since sparked a fierce backlash and calls for him to step down.