Filipinos 'targeted' in Northern Ireland amid racist violence

The Philippine Embassy in London warned Filipino residents on Thursday, June 12, to stay vigilant after racist riots in Northern Ireland specifically targeted members of their community, including setting fire to one person’s vehicle.

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The embassy issued the advisory following unrest in the town of Ballymena and surrounding areas in Northern Ireland, which reportedly began after an alleged sexual assault of a young girl by two Romanian teenagers.

Filipino residents became targets during the violence despite having no connection to the triggering incident.

Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy in London.

“Unfortunately, in the ensuing unrest, Filipinos in the area have been targeted,” the embassy stated. “The vehicle of one was set on fire. It is regrettable that innocent individuals have been caught in the crossfire.”