Closure of Embassy Manila Due To Threat

Taken Question
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
December 6, 2005
Question Taken at the December 6, 2005 Press Briefing

Closure of Embassy Manila

Question: Can you provide any additional details on the reasons for the closing of the American embassy in Manila on December 6?

Answer: As announced yesterday, U.S. public services at the U.S. Embassy in Manila will be temporarily closed to the public beginning on December 6, 2005 due to plausible threat information. We have nothing to add to the statement. We will update the statement as needed.

Embassy Manila issued the following announcement on December 6:

(Begin Text)

The American Embassy in Manila would like to alert all Philippine and American citizens that due to plausible threat information, U.S. public services at the U.S. Embassy in Manila will be temporarily closed to the public beginning on December 6, 2005. These public operations include visa and consular services, and services of the Social Security Administration and Veterans Affairs Regional Office.

American citizens requiring emergency assistance from the Embassy may contact the Embassy at the following number: (63-2) 528-6300, ext. 2246 or 2555.

As per the U.S. State Department Travel Warning for the Philippines issued in March 2005, American citizens are urged to observe vigilant personal security precautions, and to remain aware of the continued potential for terrorist attacks against Americans, U.S. or other Western interests in the Philippines.

The U.S. Embassy will resume all public operations, including visa operations, when deemed appropriate.

(End Text)

2005/1140

Released on December 6, 2005

ENDS

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