Filipinos in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been advised to exercise heightened caution following a surge in violent incidents, particularly in the capital, Port Moresby, and nearby areas.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) issued the warning on Wednesday, urging overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in PNG to remain vigilant.

“As much as possible, avoid high-risk areas and refrain from going out at unsafe hours,” the DMW stated in a Facebook advisory.

The warning follows a security advisory from the Philippine Embassy in Port Moresby, which urged Filipinos to report any countrymen who may be affected and in need of urgent assistance.

Recent weeks have seen a wave of brutal attacks in PNG, including the reported killings of two women in separate incidents. One of the victims was allegedly abducted, gang-raped, and murdered by over 20 men in Port Moresby.

Authorities have since begun dismantling a nearby settlement where the crime occurred as part of efforts to locate the suspects.

The incidents have sparked public outrage and renewed discussions on the widespread issue of gender-based violence in PNG. The United Nations has condemned the attacks and called for justice, while also warning that forced evictions and property destruction in response to the crimes are violations of human rights.

The Philippine Embassy has advised Filipinos in PNG to avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night, and to contact the embassy through its hotline (+675) 81537174 or email portmoresby.pe@dfa.gov.ph for assistance.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), there were approximately 40,000 Filipinos in Papua New Guinea as of 2018, most of whom work in the services and agriculture sectors.