No Filipinos reported harmed in France, Italy protests — DFA

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 19, 2026

Photo courtesy: Multiple Sources

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has confirmed that no Filipinos have been reported injured or involved in the widespread demonstrations in France and Italy, where protests over rising living costs have led to violent clashes, property damage, and arrests.

DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said Monday, October 19, that the latest reports from Philippine diplomatic missions in both countries showed no Filipino nationals affected by the unrest.

The information was provided by the Philippine Embassy in Paris and the Philippine Consulate General in Milan, which have been monitoring developments involving Filipino communities in their respective jurisdictions.

The DFA’s announcement comes as demonstrations across several European cities have intensified, with protesters expressing frustration over economic conditions and the quality of public services.

Violent protests spread across France

France experienced widespread unrest on Saturday, October 17, when demonstrations over increasing living expenses, fuel prices, and public services escalated into confrontations between some protesters and police.

Hundreds of thousands of people participated in demonstrations across the country, including in Paris, Marseille, and other major cities.

While many demonstrators participated peacefully, groups involved in the unrest reportedly set vehicles on fire, vandalized public property, and looted shops and supermarkets.

Police and emergency personnel also faced attacks during the disturbances, prompting security operations and numerous arrests.

The protests developed amid broader public dissatisfaction with economic pressures, including the cost of education, housing, and essential goods.

Italy also records clashes and property damage

Similar demonstrations took place in Italy, where protests against rising living costs and other economic concerns resulted in clashes in several cities.

In Milan, confrontations erupted around Piazza del Duomo after a demonstration turned violent. Some participants threw objects at police, damaged shops, and set property on fire.

Italian police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse those involved in the violence.

According to reports, around 50 people were detained in Milan, while additional arrests and disturbances were recorded in Turin and Bologna.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, maintaining that peaceful demonstrations should not be used as justification for attacks on people or property.

Philippine Embassy urges Filipinos to remain cautious

Although no Filipino casualties or arrests have been reported, the Philippine Embassy in Paris has advised Filipino nationals to remain vigilant as protests continue.

In an advisory issued Sunday, October 18, the Embassy encouraged Filipinos to avoid protest locations and large gatherings, monitor local developments, and follow instructions from French officials.

The Philippine mission also assured the Filipino community that it was closely monitoring the situation and remained prepared to provide consular assistance when necessary.

The Embassy reiterated that no Filipino nationals had been reported killed, injured, or arrested in connection with the October 17 demonstrations.

Meanwhile, the DFA’s October 19 update also confirmed that the Philippine Consulate General in Milan had not received reports of Filipinos harmed or involved in the protests in Italy.

The Philippine diplomatic missions continue monitoring developments as demonstrations and security operations affect parts of both countries.