US Embassy in Manila (MB File Photo)
The United States Embassy in Manila warned its citizens in the Philippines of the two large-scale anti-corruption rallies scheduled on Nov. 30, with one being close enough to the embassy’s compound along Roxas Blvd. in Manila.
In an advisory, the embassy informed its citizens that the rallies will be conducted at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City and Rizal (Luneta) Park in Manila.
“The Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to follow local news for information about possible protest activity in your area,” the advisory read.
“U.S. citizens should avoid the rallies, as even peaceful rallies/demonstrations have the potential to turn violent without warning. Foreign nationals found engaging in a protest or mass demonstration could be considered in violation of their immigration status,” it added.
The embassy also advised its citizens to follow local media and government sources “for updates on possible disruptions and re-routing schemes as heavy traffic congestion and road closures are expected near protest venues.”
It stressed the need for American citizens to exercise caution if they found themselves near the areas where there are large gatherings.
According to the embassy, the rally at the EDSA People Power Monument will reportedly draw about 100,000 expected attendees, while the one in Luneta Park will attract 500 rally-goers.
The Luneta Park is 500 meters from the Embassy Compound and four kilometers from the Seafront Compound.
“In addition to these two main events, simultaneous demonstrations are planned across 29 locations throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” it said.
The demonstrations on Sunday, Nov. 30, comes amid massive corruption issues in the government’s infrastructure projects as they call for accountability and the resignation of some top government officials.