Pinoys urged to stay indoors, exercise caution amid Jakarta protests

Filipinos in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta were advised to stay indoors and to exercise caution amid the ongoing violent anti-government protests.

"While it remains relatively safe in the city, the embassy continues to monitor developments and will provide further advice, as appropriate," according to an advisory issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs on Saturday.

Corruption and cost-of-living issues have sparked nationwide protests in major cities across Indonesia and were exacerbated by the death of a motorcycle taxi driver who was hit by a police vehicle during a demonstration in Jakarta.

In a major test to his leadership, Prabowo Subianto, who assumed the presidency in October 2024, called for calm and asked Indonesians to trust in his administration.

"The Philippine Embassy advises the Filipino community in Jakarta to stay indoors in light of recent and continuing demonstrations being held in various areas in Jakarta," the DFA said.

"Filipinos currently in Jakarta should exercise caution and vigilance for safety and avoid large crowds that may put themselves in danger."

Those in need of assistance were advised to contact the embassy through its hotline +62811887334. —VBL, GMA Integrated News