In a recent statement, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) advised Filipinos working in Hong Kong to "stay cautious and vigilant in the face of escalating protests and public disruptions" in the territory.
The Deparment also shared dates and areas of protests sent by the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong:
- 12 October: New Town Plaza Shatin
- 13 October: Victoria Park and Edinburgh Place
- 14 October: Edinburgh Place and Chater Garden
- 16 October: Resumption of Legislative Council
- 20 October: The Riverpark Tai Wai to Shatin
- 21 October: Yuen Long MTR Station
- 26 October: Tamar Park Admiralty
- 31 October: Prince Edward MTR Station
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said in the release: “We are again urging all our OFWs in Hong Kong to exercise caution by staying indoors and keeping away from the locations where protest activities are taking place," adding that Filipino workers should avoid wearing black or white tops so as not to be mistaken as a protestor.
Anti-government protests have rocked Hong Kong since June 2019, with locals opposing a bill that allows extradition to mainland China as it was said to undermine the the region's independence. The bill was initially suspended and eventually withdrawn; however, protests continue, with many wanting the resignation of Chief Executive Carrie Lam as well as demanding investigations on alleged police brutality, among others.
