The Philippine Embassy wishes to inform all Filipinos in Kuwait that due to the escalating tension in Yemen, Kuwait has activated its contingency plans to strengthen security to ensure the safety of its people as well as expatriates in the country.

Kuwait has also raised the level of security measures and intensified the protection of its oil facilities and outside of the contry.

Kuwaiti lawmakers have declared their total support for participation in Saudi Arabia-led military operations against the Shiite Houthi militia, which is believed to be backed by predominanlty Shiite Iran.

The Kuwait government has also warned that Kuwaitis and foreign nationals in the country who are sympathetic to Houthis are being monitored and there will be deterrent measures against them.

In view of the above, all Filipinos in Kuwait are hereby advised to observe the following precautionary measures to ensure their safety:

1. Avoid unnecessary travels and activities in Kuwait, especially after working hours;

2. Avoid unnecessary mingling in public places;

3. Report to your building managers or to police authorities any unusual packages or devices in your places of work or residence; and

4. In the same manner, report to your building managers or police authorities any unusual activities by unidentified persons in your places of work or residence.

The Embassy is ready to provide assistance to our problematic and distressed kababayan in Kuwait, including Duty Officers after office hours.

Kuwait, 29 March 2015