DFA reissues Thailand travel advisory

Amid increased violence in Thailand, the Department of Foreign Affairs re-issued Saturday its travel bulletin advising Filipinos to postpone non-essential travels to the country historically called the “Land of Smiles," particularly to the capital Bangkok. "Filipinos who are already in Thailand are also advised to avoid all areas where anti-government rallyists continue to congregate and stage their protests," the DFA said on its website Saturday night. At least 16 people have been reported killed in several days of violence in Bangkok as Thai troops clashed with anti-government protesters. The British Broadcasting Co. (BBC) reported protesters who want the prime minister to resign, are barricaded in a camp. Authorities have ruled out negotiations with the red-shirt protesters. United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has urged both protesters and the authorities to avoid further violence.—JV, GMANews.TV