Embassy tells Pinoys in Thailand to obey martial law curfew

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Embassy in Thailand has advised Filipinos there to observe the curfew imposed by the Thai military which has taken over the government.

In a public advisory, the embassy said Filipinos in Thailand should remain indoors during the curfew imposed from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The embassy also urged Filipinos to exercise extreme caution and vigilance and observe the other precautionary measures such as avoiding non-essential movements within the country and refraining from joining protests and other political activities.

Filipinos in Thailand should also follow security instructions by the authorities and carry valid identification documents at all times, the embassy added.

Earlier this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) raised alert level 2 in Thailand following the declaration of martial law by the Thai army to restore peace and order in the country.

It comes after the ouster of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra who was deemed to have abused her power in transferring a high-level government official.

The declaration of martial law and the military takeover of the government also comes after six months of sometimes violent political unrest and protests that called for the end of the so-called Thaksin regime.

Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck's older brother, was the prime minister from 2001 to 2006 when was overthrown in a military coup.

In a statement on Friday, the DFA said the Philippines supports a peaceful resolution of the present crisis.

"The Philippines likewise hopes for an early return to normalcy consistent with democratic principles, the rule of law and the will and interest of the Thai people," DFA spokesman Charles Jose said.

Filipinos in Thailand are advised to contact the Philippine embassy for emergencies via the following:

• 760 Sukhumvit Road corner Soi Philippines (Soi 30/1) Bangkok 10110, Kingdom of Thailand
• Telephone: (+662) 259-0139/40 or (+662) 258-5401
• Hotline (for emergency cases only): (+668) 99265954
• Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
• Fax: (+662) 259-2809
• Website: bangkokpe.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/bkkpe