Filipinos advised to avoid Cambodia-Thailand borders

MANILA, Philippines, December 16 ------ The Philippine embassies in Bangkok and in Phnom Penh had advised Filipinos in the Cambodia-Thailand border to avoid areas affected by the armed conflict between the two countries. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Cambodia has an estimated 10,000–12,000 Filipinos, including 87 in its two border provinces. Thailand has 38,509 Filipinos, with 125 in seven border provinces.

Cambodia and Thailand, both members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), share a 800-kilometer land border which has been a source of political tensions. Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz-Paredes on Saturday said at least 188 Filipinos were evacuated following the renewed clashes between Thailand and Cambodia. "Stay away from areas where military operations are reported and avoid military camps, facilities, and forces," the Philippine Embassy in Cambodia said.

In their respective advisories, they urged Filipinos to keep them informed of their location and circumstances. The embassy in Cambodia appealed to Filipinos residing in the border provinces of Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, and Preah Vihear to accomplish a survey which will aid its coordination efforts with local authorities in case of emergency. "The safety and well-being of all Filipinos remain our top consideration," the embassy said as it advised all Filipinos in the affected areas to monitor the news.

The embassy in Thailand also advised Filipinos in the border provinces of Ubon Ratchatani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Sa Kaeo, Buri Ram, Chantaburi, and Trat "to follow the advice, including any evacuation orders, from local public safety and community officials, their employers, and other pertinent authorities in the affected areas."

Source: manilatimes.net