Manila: The Philippines is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Venezuela following reports of a large-scale military operation carried out by the United States (US) that resulted in the capture of its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Sunday.

According to Philippines News Agency, DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona stated that the Philippines is advocating for all concerned parties to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid any actions that could further exacerbate tensions. "The Philippines is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Venezuela," Escalona emphasized. "The Philippines urges concerned parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means, and to exercise restraint to prevent escalation of conflict."

Escalona further noted that the Philippine Embassy in Bogota, which serves as the country's non-resident mission for Venezuela, has issued a travel and safety advisory for Filipinos residing in the South American nation. "The Philippine Embassy in Bogota, which serves as non-resident mission for Venezuela, has issued a travel and safety advisory to Filipinos in Venezuela, and stands ready to provide assistance to them, as necessary and appropriate, to keep them out of harm's way," she added.

The DFA's statement was issued in the wake of US President Donald Trump's announcement that Washington had 'successfully' executed a 'large scale strike' against Venezuela, leading to the capture and removal of Maduro and his wife from the country. In a message on his Truth Social platform, Trump mentioned that the operation was conducted 'in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement.'

The Trump administration has previously accused Maduro of drug trafficking, allegations that the Venezuelan leader has consistently denied. Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in Colombia earlier advised Filipinos in Venezuela to identify safe spaces for refuge amid the unfolding situation.