Malacañang: No travel ban on Hong Kong

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang on Saturday clarified that the Philippine government has not issued a travel warning for Hong Kong amid the violent pro-demoracy protests.

"Wala pang ini-issue of any advisory of any sort," Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte said over state-owned radio Radyo ng Bayan.

Valte, meanwhile, advised Filipinos who are planning to travel to Hong Kong to "be mindful of your surroundings."

"Please be aware of your surroundings especially in the protest areas," she said.

The Associated Press reported Saturday that at least 12 people and six officers were injured in clashes during pro-democracy protests.

The clashes happened as protest leaders declined to push through with the planned talks with the government.

The protesters are urging local residents to join their cause.

Valte confirmed that some Filipinos in Hong Kong are alredy joining the protests and "most of them are permanent residents."

She said that these Filipinos should"use their best judgement when it comes to joining the protests, especially when it comes to their safety."

Meanwhile, she said the Philippines' consular office in Hong Kong continues to communicate with the leaders of the Filipino communities in Hong Kong.

"We continue to coordinate and keep our communication lines open with the Filipino community and our consul office is on standby for assistance," she said.

There is an estimated 185,000 Filipinos in Hong Kong.