Manila  - The Philippine foreign department on Thursday warned Filipinos travelling abroad against wearing talismans and charms with live bullets.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said a number of Filipino travellers have been detained in various countries after they were found in possession of live bullets which they wear as necklaces, bracelets key chains and other accessories.

The government said possession of a live bullet, even if it is used as an accessory, in a criminal offense in some countries.

Talismans and lucky charms using live bullets are commonplace in the Philippines, Asia's largest Catholic country, but these are not allowed in air travel. (dpa)