DFA calls on Filipinos in Libya to consider repatriation amid clashes

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday raised Alert Level III in Tripoli and nearby areas as clashes between rival factions in Libya continue.

The DFA said Filipinos in Tripoli and in areas within 100 kilometers of the Libyan capital should consider leaving the country. Alert Level III is a call for voluntary repatriation, up from Alert Level II (Restriction).

"The Philippine Embassy in Tripoli gave the recommendation to raise the Alert Level following the escalation of the fighting that included the shelling of residential areas in the outskirts of the capital," DFA said.

It also said Filipinos near the fighting between the Government of National Accord and the Libyan National Army should move to safer ground or coordinate with the embassy "for assistance in their repatriation before the fighting intensifies."

The DFA said the embassy in Tripoli "will remain open to respond to requests for assistance from Filipinos who might be affected by the fighting."

Aside from Tripoli, Alert Level III is up in the following areas, DFA said: 

To the East

• Tajoura
• Ghot Romman
• Qaraboli
• Qasr Khiyar

To the South

• Esbea
• Tarhuna
• Bani Waled
• Gharyan

To the West

• Aziziya
• Warshifana
• Zawia
• Surman
• Sabratha

Filipinos will not be allowed to trabel to Libya until the alert level is lowered, the DFA said.