DFA finalizing repatriation of Filipinos in Myanmar

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is preparing for the repatriation of Filipinos in Myanmar on Feb. 15, an official said yesterday.

DFA executive director for strategic communications Ivy Banzon-Abalos said 252 Filipinos have signified interest to be repatriated.

Philippine Ambassador to Myanmar Eduardo Kapunan Jr. said the flight being finalized is a COVID-19 repatriation flight.

“We are planning to evacuate Filipinos in Myanmar because of COVID-19,” Kapunan said, adding it has nothing to do with the political turmoil there.

The DFA advised Filipinos in Myanmar to exercise due caution, monitor developments through reputable sources and observe the guidance of local authorities.

There are 1,273 Filipinos in Myanmar, according to the DFA.

Most of the Filipinos in Myanmar work in the manufacturing industry as supervisors. Others also work for United Nations agencies and other international organizations.

The Philippines is following the situation in Myanmar as it expressed concern over the safety of leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar’s military took control of the country in a coup last week and declared a state of emergency.

The military detained Suu Kyi and other senior government leaders and voided her party’s landslide election victory in November last year.