Ensure coordination with Pinoys in South Korea, Aquino orders DFA

President Benigno Aquino III on Sunday ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs to coordinate closely with Filipinos in Korea amid North Korea's reported announcement of a "state of war" against South Korea.

A report on state-run Philippines News Agency quoted presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda as saying Aquino is constantly updated on the situation.

"The President has directed the DFA to ensure that the Philippine embassy in Korea coordinate with the Filipino community there," he said.

On Saturday, North Korea reportedly announced a "state of war" with South Korea, with the latter downplaying the claim by saying it carried nothing "new."

Earlier, DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said that the Philippine embassy in Seoul is already monitoring the situation and coordinating with Filipino community leaders "on steps to be taken in case escalation of tensions warrants an evacuation."

He also said a state of "heightened alertness" remains in force for all Filipinos in Korea.

Hernandez also said there are some 40,000 Filipinos in South and North Korea.

Contingency plans

The PNA report also quoted Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. as saying the National Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has contingency plans to respond to potential external threats.

"[The] NDRRMC has a continuing contingency plan to respond to external threats, including previous missiles launched from the two Koreas," Coloma said.

"We maintain a posture of vigilance and adherence to diplomatic modes of conflict resolution," he added. — BM, GMA News

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