DFA alerts Pinoys in Honduras over ‘political unrest’

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

MANILA (Philippines News Agency) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday issued Alert Level 1 advisory in Honduras, citing political unrest in the country after its recently concluded national elections.

According to the DFA, alert level 1 or the precautionary phase among four levels, is raised when there are valid signs of internal disturbance, instability, or external threat to the host country.

“All members of the Filipino community are advised to take necessary precautions during this period,” it said in a statement.

For concerns, the agency reminded Filipinos to reach out to Philippine Honorary Consul Tito Bendeck through email at tito_bendeck@yahoo.com or by phone at ‎(504) 2552 5106 or ‎2558 0115.

The Honorary Consulate is located at Barrio Barrandillas 8, Calle 1-2 Ave., NE#754, San Pedro Sula, Cortes, Honduras.

At present, DFA Acting Spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar said there are around 150 Filipinos residing in the country.

Street protests erupted in Honduras after its November 26 electionS and its Supreme Election Tribunal decided to recognize conservative President Juan Orlando Hernandez over leftist candidate Salvador Nasralla.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres already called on authorities in Honduras to uphold the rule of law, saying he was concerned about violence stemming from the polls.

“The Secretary-General calls upon the country’s political leaders, and particularly the presidential candidates, to exercise their leadership with responsibility in this crucial moment for the future of Honduras,” his spokesperson delivered. (PNA)