US Embassy advises US citizens to avoid Nov. 30 rallies

The United States Embassy in Manila issued an advisory to US citizens to avoid the anti-corruption rallies scheduled on Sunday, November 30.

In its demonstration alert, the embassy said large-scale anti-corruption protests will be held at EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City and Rizal Park or Luneta in Manila.

It said that approximately 100,000 are expected to attend the rally at EDSA People Power Monument, while 5,000 will be at Luneta, according to police. 

Luneta, it said, is "situated 500 meters from the Embassy Compound and four kilometers from the Seafront Compound."

Aside from these, anti-corruption rallies will also be held in 29 locations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the embassy said.

"U.S. citizens should avoid the rallies, as even peaceful rallies/demonstrations have the potential to turn violent without warning," the embassy said.

"Foreign nationals found engaging in a protest or mass demonstration could be considered in violation of their immigration status," it warned.

The embassy also advised US citizens to get the latest updates from local media and government sources on possible disruptions and re-routing schemes due to the expected heavy traffic and road closures.

READ: Quezon City issues traffic advisory for Nov. 30 Trillion Peso March

READ: Manila City issues traffic advisory for Nov. 30 anti-corruption protest

"Follow instructions from local authorities. Exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings," it added.

Various groups are staging rallies calling for transparency and accountability after the corruption revealed in flood control projects. —KG, GMA Integrated News