By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has elevated the crisis alert level in Tripoli from 2 to 3 or voluntary repatriation phase on Monday following tensions in the Libyan capital since last week.
“I have raised the alert level in Libya to 3 but only for Tripoli and adjacent districts plus a 100 km radius,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. announced in his official Twitter account.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Libya, the alert level will cover Filipinos working and living in Tripoli, as well as in Tajoura, Ghot Romman, Qaraboli, Qasr Khiyar, Esbea, Tarhuna, Bani Waled, Gharyan, Aziziya, Warshifana, Zawia, Surman, and Sabratha.
Alert level III or voluntary repatriation phase means that those currently in the Philippines or are about to travel back to Manila would not be allowed to return to the Libyan capital until after the situation normalizes.
In its latest advisory, the embassy reiterated its call for Filipino nationals living and working within the 100-kilometer radius of Tripoli to consider having themselves repatriated in view of the escalation of fighting near the capital.
It also urged Filipinos in the area to strongly consider sending their dependents to the Philippines to ensure their safety.
Chargé d’affaires and Embassy head of mission Elmer Cato earlier said the embassy will assist and shoulder the repatriation cost of Filipinos who wish to go home.
For Filipinos who choose to stay, the embassy asked that they steer clear of areas where fighting is taking place and to move to safer locations if possible.
Those who need emergency shelter are advised to call the embassy for assistance.
Filipinos are also “strongly advised against taking part or even going near any public demonstrations or armed formations” and “from making social media comments about the political situation in the country”.
Filipinos in need of urgent assistance may contact the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli through the number +218-91-824-4208 or through “Philippine Embassy in Libya” Facebook page.
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