DFA issues Alert Level 1 for Egypt

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday issued alert level 1 for Egypt after Egyptians ousted their elected President Mohamed Mursi on Wednesday.

“Upon the recommendation of our Embassy in Cairo, the Secretary has just raised crisis alert level 1 over Egypt,” DFA spokesperson Raul Hernandez said in a press briefing.

“Under this alert level, Filipinos are advised to stay indoors, avoid places where protests are being held and take all necessary precautions,” he noted.

According to Hernandez, the Philippine Embassy in Cairo has intensified monitoring of the political and security situation in Egypt assigning duty officer to man the Embassy 24/7 and keeping communication lines open every time.

“Our citizens should likewise be on standby for any advisories that the Embassy might issue regarding developments on the peace and order situation in that country,” Hernandez added.

On Wednesday, Egypt’s armed forces toppled Islamist President Mohamed Mursi as the leader had "failed to meet the demands of the Egyptian people."

At least 6,569 Filipinos are currently in Egypt, mostly in Cairo and Alexandria, based on latest government records.

Earlier, the Palace also said it has no plans to pull out its embassy officials in Egypt. — Rouchelle R. Dinglasan/BM, GMA News