The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Wednesday, February 24, that it had raised Alert Level 2 over Myanmar, where thousands continued to oppose a military takeover of the country’s democratically elected government despite fatal shootings in recent days. 

The DFA said it had raised the alert level in neighboring Myanmar “in view of the developing critical situation” in the Southeast Asian country, and as a “precautionary measure” to ensure the safety of 1,273 Filipinos there. 

Under Alert Level 2, the DFA urges overseas Filipino workers to restrict “non-essential movement, avoid places of protest, and prepare for possible evacuation.”

The DFA said Alert Level 2 is issued “if there are real threats to the life, security, and property of Filipinos arising from internal disturbance, instability, or external threat.” Only overseas Filipino workers who have existing employment contracts will be allowed to travel to Myanmar. 

“The Department reiterates its advice to Filipinos in Myanmar to exercise due caution, monitor developments through reputable sources, avoid places of protests, and observe the guidance of the Philippine Embassy in Yangon,” it said in a statement Wednesday night. 

The Philippines’ warning comes after thousands of protesters gathered in towns and cities despite a chilling message from the junta that confrontation would cost more lives.

Just a few days ago on Saturday, February 20, two protesters were killed when police opened fire in the city of Mandalay, marking the bloodiest day in the campaign for the restoration of democracy.

Three weeks after seizing power last February 1, the junta has failed to stop daily protests and a civil disobedience movement calling for the reversal of the February 1 coup and release of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The Philippines earlier called for the “complete restoration” of the status quo in Myanmar. Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr said Manila supported a fuller democracy in Myanmar, taking note of its “army’s role in preserving its territorial integrity and national security, as well as the unifying role of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in the history of the country and army her father founded.”

“The realization of this democratic process can only be achieved through the complete restoration of the status quo ante,” he said. 

The military coup in Myanmar has drawn wide international criticism and concern. On Tuesday, February 23, the Group of Seven (G7) rich nations became the latest to condemn the intimidation and oppression of those opposing the coup.

The United States imposed sanctions on two more members of the junta and warned it could take more action, while the European Union said it was considering sanctions that would target businesses owned by the army. – with reports from Reuters/Rappler.com