Filipinos in Jakarta told to stay indoors amid violent protests

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

The Philippine Embassy in Jakarta said the city remains relatively safe but assured it is closely monitoring developments and will issue further guidance as needed. (Pexels Photo)

MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday advised Filipinos in Jakarta to remain indoors and avoid large crowds as violent protests continue across Indonesia.

“Filipinos currently in Jakarta should exercise caution and vigilance for safety, and avoid large crowds that may put themselves in danger,” the DFA said in a statement.

The Philippine Embassy in Jakarta said the city remains relatively safe but assured it is closely monitoring developments and will issue further guidance as needed.

Nationwide protests erupted Monday over low wages and alleged lavish allowances of lawmakers.

Tensions escalated after a video circulated showing a motorcycle delivery driver being run over by a police vehicle.

On Friday, at least three people were killed while five were injured in a fire blamed on protesters at a parliament building in eastern Indonesia.

Antara news agency reported Saturday that protests are also taking place in other cities, like Bandung, Yogyakarta, Solo, Surabaya, and Makassar, demanding justice for the poor.

President Prabowo Subianto urged citizens to remain calm and trust his government to address their grievances. He assured public grievances would be recorded and followed up.

“We are committed to doing our best for the people,” Prabowo said, according to a statement from the Presidential Secretariat’s Bureau of Press, Media and Information on Friday.

The DFA said any Filipino affected by the protests may reach the Philippine Embassy’s Assistance-to-Nationals number via WA +62811887334.