China issues travel advisory to Chinese nationals over 'unstable public security' in the Philippines
The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines warned Chinese citizens who are in the Philippines and are planning to go to the country to take extra precautions amid alleged security risks.
In an advisory posted on its website, the embassy noted that there was an increase of political rallies in the PH and claimed that local law enforcement agencies have “frequently interrogated and harassed Chinese citizens and businesses.”
“In recent times, public security in the Philippines has been unstable,” it read. “Philippine law enforcement agencies have frequently interrogated and harassed Chinese citizens and businesses. Political rallies, marches, and demonstrations have increased significantly in various places, and the security risks faced by Chinese citizens and institutions in the Philippines have increased.”
The embassy added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy and Consulate General are reminding Chinese citizens in the country to monitor the local security situation as well as strengthen security precautions and emergency preparedness.
It also advised Chinese citizens to refrain from going on unnecessary outings, avoid political gatherings and crowded places, and “beware of falling into security traps and snares.”
The embassy reminded Chinese nationals to follow local laws and regulations, and advised those who are planning to travel to the PH to “conduct risk assessments and make prudent travel decisions.”
It noted that in case of emergency, they may seek help from the police and contact the Chinese Embassy and Consulate General in the Philippines.
In late January, The Philippine STAR reported that some Chinese nationals were arrested for allegedly spying on the government, specifically Malacañang, Villamor Airbase, Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Crame, and the US embassy in Manila. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro called the news "alarming" and assured the public that they would “intensify our forces” vs alleged spies.
