Filipinos have been among those targeted in racist riots in Northern Ireland, with one of them having their car set on fire, the Philippine Embassy in London bared.
Philippine Embassy in the United Kingdom (Photo courtesy of Philippine Embassy)
On June 12, the embassy issued an advisory about the situation, where Filipinos were among other migrants who were targeted in the riots triggered by an alleged sexual assault of a young girl by two Romanian teenagers.
“The Philippine Embassy in London is deeply concerned about the racist riots in Northern Ireland, reportedly triggered by an alleged sexual assault of a young girl by two Romanian teenagers,” the embassy said.
“Unfortunately, in the ensuing unrest, Filipinos in the area have been targeted. The vehicle of one was set on fire. It is regrettable that innocent individuals have been caught in the crossfire,” the embassy added.
According to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega, although there were no Filipinos hurt in the riots, they are being among those targeted.
“So, right now, may sampung Filipino na inaalagaan ng ibang Filipino families, remember apektado pero walang physical injuries ang mga Filipino ngayon (there are 10 Filipinos taken care of by other Filipino families, remember they are affected but there is no physical injuries among Filipinos at present),” De Vega said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview on Friday, June 13.
He said Ambassador Teddy Locsin will go to Belfast in Northern Ireland to assess the situation on the ground and ensure that no one else is hurt.
“We will wait his report baka may mga litrato siya ganyan kasama ng iba. Walang napinsala, walang mismong in-attack physically, walang body hard (perhaps he would be able o provide pictures. No one is harmed, no one was physically attack, no body hard). So, we’ll continue to hope for the best and update you,” De Vega said.
De Vega said there are 5,000 Filipinos in Northern Ireland and around 100 of them are in the town of Ballymena, where the riots are happening.
The embassy said it is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant coordination with local authorities to ensure the safety and security of all Filipinos in the area.
It also urged all Filipinos in Ballymena and the surrounding areas to be vigilant, follow the guidance of local authorities, and contact the embassy for any urgent assistance.
