DFA raises Alert Level 1 for Filipinos in Bangladesh due to civil unrest
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has placed Bangladesh under Alert Level 1, citing the current political demonstrations and civil unrest in the country.
Police fire tear gas shells and rubber bullets to disperse students shouting slogans in favor of quota system in public service at the university campus, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Wednesday, July 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajib Dhar)
The DFA released an advisory on Friday, Aug. 2, on the situation in the South Asian country.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announces that it has placed Bangladesh under Crisis Alert Level 1 (Precautionary Phase) in view of the recent political demonstrations and civil unrest in the country. The security situation can deteriorate without warning,” the advisory read.
Alert level 1 means “precautionary phase.”
Under the alert level, Filipinos are “strongly advised” to: exercise precaution and restrict non-essential movement; remain vigilant, monitor and follow guidelines posted by local authorities; always be in possession of valid passports and residence visas; and register their particulars with the Philippine Embassy in Dhaka.
The DFA said that there are currently 700 Filipinos in Bangladesh.
For emergencies, the DFA advised Filipinos there to contact the Philippine Embassy via [email protected] or call or text emergency hotlines (+880) 190-540-0079. These hotline numbers can also be reached through WhatsApp and Viber.
On social media, the embassy remains active on Facebook and Messenger via PHinBangladesh.
On Friday, thousands of people took to the streets, clashing with the police and calling for the resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Demanding justice for more than 200 people killed in demonstrations last month, the crowds reportedly attacked the police with stones, while the police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at demonstrators.
Reports said more protests were scheduled for this weekend.