Philippines envoy to visit Northern Ireland amid racist riots

MANILA, Philippines — Amid reports of violent racist attacks in Northern Ireland, Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro Locsin Jr. will visit the area to meet the Filipino community and personally assess the situation.

The Philippine embassy in London said it is deeply concerned about the racist riots which started in Ballymena town and has now spread to surrounding cities in Northern Ireland.

The riots were reportedly triggered by an alleged sexual assault of a young girl by two Romanian teenagers.

“Unfortunately, in the ensuing unrest, Filipinos in the area have been targeted. The vehicle of one was set on fire. It is regrettable that innocent individuals have been caught in the crossfire,” a post on the official embassy Facebook page read.

“The embassy is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant coordination with local authorities to ensure the safety and security of all Filipinos in the area,” it added.

Filipinos in Ballymena and nearby areas are urged to be vigilant, follow the guidance of local authorities and contact the embassy for any urgent assistance.

The Philippine embassy said Locsin will be coming from Cardiff to raise the Philippine flag in a special ceremony at the Cardiff Castle at the invitation of the Welsh government.