The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday advised Filipinos in Jakarta to remain indoors and avoid large crowds as violent protests continue across Indonesia.
“Filipinos currently in Jakarta should exercise caution and vigilance for safety, and avoid large crowds that may put themselves in danger,” the DFA said in a statement.
The Philippine Embassy in Jakarta said the city remains relatively safe but assured that it is closely monitoring developments and will issue further guidance as needed. Nationwide protests erupted Monday over low wages and alleged lavish allowances of lawmakers.
Tensions escalated after a video circulated showing a motorcycle delivery driver being run over by a police vehicle. On Friday, at least three people were killed while five others were injured in a fire blamed on protesters at a parliament building in eastern Indonesia.
Antara news agency reported Saturday that protests are also taking place in Bandung, Yogyakarta, Solo, Surabaya, and Makassar, with demonstrators demanding justice for the poor. President Prabowo Subianto urged citizens to remain calm and trust the government to address grievances. The DFA said any Filipino affected by the protests may reach the Embassy’s Assistance-to-Nationals number via WhatsApp +62811887334.
