MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has urged Filipinos in France and Italy to exercise heightened vigilance and avoid protest areas as violent demonstrations, marked by clashes with police, looting and attacks on public buildings, raised security concerns in the two European countries.
Although no Filipinos have been reported injured or involved in the unrest, Philippine diplomatic missions are closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of Filipino nationals, particularly in cities where demonstrations have turned violent.
DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel confirmed Monday that Philippine officials had not received reports of Filipino casualties or involvement in the disturbances.
“Per the latest reports from the Philippine Embassy in Paris and the Philippine Consulate General in Milan, no Filipinos have been reported to be involved or harmed in the protests,” Ratonel told reporters.
The warning comes as widespread demonstrations over soaring living costs and deteriorating public services have intensified in France and Italy, with some protests degenerating into violent confrontations with law enforcement authorities.
In France, demonstrations escalated over the weekend as protesters reportedly stormed public buildings, looted shops and supermarkets, and clashed with police.
One of the most serious incidents occurred on October 17 when the city hall in Limoges, central France, caught fire after a group reportedly entered the building during the demonstrations.
The nationwide unrest has drawn participants from various sectors, including students, climate activists, farmers and former Yellow Vest demonstrators, reflecting widespread public dissatisfaction over economic conditions and government services.
In Italy, similar tensions erupted Sunday as police confronted demonstrators in Milan during protests over rising living expenses and public services.
Reuters reported that some protesters allegedly threw stones and looted commercial establishments during the disturbances.
Amid the escalating unrest, the Philippine Consulate General in Milan issued a security advisory urging Filipinos, particularly those residing or working in northern Italy, to stay away from areas where violent demonstrations have occurred.
“In light of the recent violent protests and clashes in Milan, Bologna, Turin, and Bergamo, we are asking everyone to please exercise extreme caution. If possible, avoid large crowds, known protest areas, and major city squares, especially in the evenings,” the consulate said in an advisory.
The advisory underscored the potential danger posed by rapidly developing demonstrations, particularly in crowded public spaces where confrontations between protesters and security forces could erupt.
Filipinos were also encouraged to remain alert to developments in their respective communities and immediately inform Philippine diplomatic authorities of any compatriots who might need assistance.
“If you receive any information about Filipinos affected by, injured, or involved in the unrest, please notify the Consulate immediately so we can monitor the situation and provide the necessary assistance,” it added.
The DFA maintained that Philippine diplomatic missions would continue monitoring the security situation in both countries as authorities assessed the impact of the demonstrations on Filipino communities.
With tensions persisting in several European cities, Filipino nationals were advised to prioritize their personal safety and heed security advisories issued by Philippine diplomatic posts./PN
