October 19, 2026 | 4:18pm
Police officers stand behind a fire near Place de la Republique following an unauthorised demonstration, central Paris, on October 18, 2026 a day after nationwide protests against the "high cost of living."
AFP / Matthieu Rondel
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Embassy in France said that no Filipinos had been arrested and no casualties involving Filipino nationals had been reported amid the unrest in the country.
In a statement on Sunday, October 18, the Philippine Embassy in France said that while it noted several violent incidents and cases of property damage in parts of France, including Paris, no casualties or legal detentions involving Filipino nationals had been recorded.
“Pinapayuhan ang mga Pilipino sa France na manatiling kalmado, iwasan ang mga lugar ng protesta at malalaking pagtitipon, at sundin ang mga tagubilin ng mga lokal na awtoridad,” the embassy’s statement read.
(Filipinos in France are advised to remain calm, avoid protest sites and large gatherings, and follow the instructions of local authorities.)
The embassy also reminded the Filipino community to maintain strict political neutrality, refrain from participating in local political disputes, and exercise restraint.
Filipinos residing in or visiting France were advised to follow all directives from local police, monitor official announcements regarding road closures and public transport disruptions, and ensure that family members were kept informed of their whereabouts.
The embassy also reminded the public to exercise caution on social media, verify information before sharing, and refrain from spreading unverified reports or inflammatory comments that could cause unnecessary panic.
Filipino nationals requiring urgent consular assistance may contact the Philippine Embassy in Paris through its dedicated hotlines and official channels:
- Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) Hotline: +33 6 80 11 52 71
- Consular hotline: +33 6 20 59 25 15
- Email: [email protected]
France has been experiencing civil unrest since September, with protests over the cost of living, fuel prices, and deteriorating public services.
The movement began as a month-long student protest over teacher shortages and poor school conditions, then broadened into anger over inflation, fuel prices, inequality, public spending cuts, and declining public services.
Trade unions, students, and groups linked to the “yellow vest” movement joined the mobilization.
On October 17, about 550,000 people marched nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris, according to the Interior Ministry, while organizers put the turnout at more than 800,000.
Tighten the repeated embassy updatesClarify the unrest timeline