PH views Venezuela crisis with concern, calls for sovereign equality

By Marita Moaje, Philippine News Agency

(photo Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines/facebook)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has expressed serious concerns over the unfolding crisis in Venezuela, emphasizing the importance of respecting the independence and sovereign equality of states.

In a statement on Monday, the DFA assured that it is closely monitoring developments in Venezuela, citing concerns over their impact on regional peace, stability, and the rules-based international order.

“While acknowledging the United States’ underlying security considerations, the Philippines stresses the relevant principles of international law, including the independence and sovereign equality of states, the peaceful resolution of disputes, the prohibition against the threat or use of force, and non-interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign states,” the statement read.

In an earlier statement, DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona said the Philippines is calling on all concerned parties to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions.

The statement came after the United States carried out a “large-scale strike” against Venezuela and captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has long accused Maduro of drug trafficking, allegations which the Venezuelan leader has denied.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, which serves as the country’s non-resident mission for Venezuela, has already issued a travel and safety advisory for Filipinos in the South American nation.

It advised them to stay vigilant, remain indoors, identify safe spaces for refuge, and closely monitor credible news sources, while keeping in touch with fellow Filipinos and the embassy.

In a television interview with Philippine Chargé d’Affaires Judy Razon on Monday, she assured that all Filipinos in Venezuela are safe so far, noting that the embassy has been closely monitoring the Filipino community since Jan. 3.

“Ayon po sa kanila, lahat naman po sila ay nasa safe na sitwasyon. Wala pong nasaktan, wala pong na-injure, at tahimik naman po doon sa kanilang mga lugar so far sa ngayon (According to them, they are all in a safe situation. No one was hurt, no one was injured, and it is quiet in their areas so far),” she said.

DFA record shows that there are now around 74 Filipinos in Venezuela.

Escalona said the embassy stands ready to assist Filipinos in Venezuela to keep them out of harm’s way.