The Chinese government has warned its citizens over the “unstable” security situation in the Philippines, telling them to stay away from political rallies and demonstrations and to reassess the need to travel to the country.
(Photo from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China)
An advisory posted on the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines’ website issued the reminder.
“Recently, the social security in the Philippines has been unstable. The Philippine law enforcement department has frequently investigated incidents that disturb Chinese citizens and enterprises,” it wrote.
“Political rallies and demonstrations in various places have increased significantly, and the security risks faced by Chinese citizens and institutions in the Philippines have increased,” it added.
The advisory asked Chinese citizens “to pay close attention to the local social security situation, effectively strengthen security precautions and emergency preparedness; reduce unnecessary going out, stay away from political gatherings and crowded places; abide by local laws and regulations, and beware of falling into security traps and traps.”
Those who intend to go to the Philippines were also recommended to “do a good risk assessment and make travel decisions carefully.”
The embassy said that Chinese citizens in the Philippines who are in need of assistance must contact the embassies and consulates in Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
The Philippines and China have been trading barbs over the resource-rich South China Sea, which Beijing claims in whole, including the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) belonging to the Philippines and other neighboring Southeast Asian nations.
The conflict has caused friction between the two countries as Manila enters into military agreements with old and new allies to beef up its maritime defense, while Beijing frowns upon what it calls an intrusion into a regional issue.