Bangkok: A total of 126 Filipinos have been displaced following the ongoing border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, according to the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok.
According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz-Paredes stated in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview that the 126 individuals were among those evacuated from local communities along the conflict-affected borders. Cruz-Paredes assured that the displaced Filipinos are in a stable condition, not in immediate danger, and were evacuated promptly and safely.
The ambassador further elaborated that, although these individuals are now dispersed across various areas in Thailand, their current situation remains stable. She highlighted that there are approximately 40,000 Filipinos residing in Thailand, with a significant percentage being teachers, primarily working in urban regions such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
In addition, Cruz-Paredes noted that around 350 documented Filipinos live in the seven provinces bordering Cambodia. Many of these teachers are requesting financial assistance due to the prevalent 'no work, no pay' policy, exacerbated by the suspension of classes. The embassy maintains regular contact with the affected individuals to provide necessary support.
Despite the situation, the Philippines does not plan to raise the alert level in Thailand, as the clashes are confined to specific border areas. The ambassador mentioned that travel advisories have been issued for the affected border regions, advising against travel there, while affirming that the rest of Thailand remains safe for Filipinos.