China's embassy in the Philippines has claimed that Chinese nationals in the country are facing "higher security risks," prompting it to issue a warning against its citizens.
In an advisory on its website, the embassy released a "safety reminder to Chinese citizens in or traveling" to the country, "considering the recent unstable public security situation."
The embassy also said there is a "growingly frequent harassment of Chinese citizens and businesses" as well as "more frequent occurrence of political assemblies, protests and demonstrations nationwide."
As such, China's Foreign Ministry advised its citizens to do the following:
- Keep a close watch on local security situation and step up safety awareness and emergency preparedness.
- Minimize non-essential outings and stay away from political gatherings or crowded venues.
- While complying with local laws and regulations, also remain vigilant against potential security traps and schemes.
Meanwhile, prospective travelers to the Philippines are advised to have thorough risk assessments and reconsider cautiously their travel plans, it said.
In case of emergency, Chinese citizens are advised not to hesitate to reach out to the Chinese Embassy or their closest consulates in the Philippines.
They may be reached through the following:
- Global Consular Protection and Service Emergency Hotline (24 hours) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 0086-10-12308 or 0086-10-65612308.
- Consular Protection and Assistance Hotlines of the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the Philippines:
- Embassy in the Philippines: 0063-2-82311033
- Consulate-General in Cebu: 0063-32-3430008
- Consulate in Laoag: 0063-9178051226
- Consulate-General in Davao: 0063-9271304354