DFA issues travel advisory for France amid fuel tax riots

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday issued a travel advisory for France, cautioning Filipino travelers and residents there to exercise caution as violent protests swept capital Paris since weekend due to a government plan to increase fuel prices next year.

“Filipinos in France as well as those in the Philippines who are traveling to Paris are advised to exercise caution in view of the violent protests that have been taking place in the French capital and other areas during the past several weekends,” the travel notice said.

They were asked to avoid going to major tourists sites, such as the Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Tuileries, Place Vendome, Avenue Friedland, Avenue Kléber, and other parts of France where demonstrations are expected to take place on Saturday.

“Filipinos should also not participate in the protests against the imposition of environmental tax on fuel and rising gas prices,” the advisory said. “The Embassy is closely monitoring the situation.”

Those who may require emergency assistance may call the Philippine embassy at +33620592515.

More than 1000 people were injured and over 400 were arrested in the “Yellow Jacket” riots, which started on Nov. 17.

French President Emmanuel Macron, which backed the increases, said it was necessary to fight climate change.

But on Tuesday, the French government backed down, announcing that it is suspending the fuel hikes for six months to appease protesters.

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said “no tax is worth putting the nation's unity in danger." —