PCG to Filipinos: Delay non-essential travel to HK

Anti-riot policemen try to stamp out the flames on garbage set alight by protesters across King's Road in Fortress Hill on Saturday night (August 31).

The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) yesterday (September 2)advised Filipinos to delay “non-essential travel” to Hong Kong as anti-government protests continue to rock the city.

The PCG noted that the protests had disrupted the city’s modes of transport. Late on Saturday night, train services were suspended in the Tsuen Wan, Kwun Tong, Island, South Island, and Tseung Kwan O Line line.

On Sunday, the Airport Express and Tung Chung lines were suspended due to protests near the airport.

“In view of the serious disruptions in the modes of transport in Hong Kong brought about by activities related to demonstrations, all Filipinos are strongly advised to delay non-essential travel to Hong Kong,” the PCG said.

“All Filipinos who are now in Hong Kong are further advised to exercise caution, keep away from demonstration areas, stay alert, and avoid wearing black or white upper clothes,” it added.

The PCG said passengers must check with their airlines and go early to the Hong Kong International Airport—the Airport Authority suggests three hours before the scheduled flight—especially on days when there are scheduled protests near Chek Lap Kok.

In case or emergency, the PCG said it may be contacted at 9+852) 9155-4023 while the Hong Kong police may be reached through 999.

The anti-government protests started in June after the government tried to pass an extradition bill that would have allowed the extradition of Hongkongers to mainland China.

Due to the mass protests, the bill was suspended but the demonstrations continued with protesters now calling for universal suffrage, an independent inquiry into alleged police brutality, the release of arrested protesters, the complete withdrawal of the bill, and the removal of the designation of the June 12 protest as a “riot.”