In an Aug. 29 update to its travel advice, Australia noted the United Kingdom recently cited a “credible and imminent” kidnap threat against foreigners in Zamboanga del Norte.
“We continue to strongly advise you not to travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and Sulu Archipelago, due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups,” it said.
Also, it reiterated its advice to its nationals to “reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao.”
On the other hand, Australia advised its nationals to “exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines because of the high threat of terrorist attack and high level of serious crime.”
“Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks,” it said.
It reiterated terrorist attacks, including bombings, are “possible anytime, anywhere in the Philippines, including in Manila.”
“We continue to receive credible reports indicating terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners,” it added.
Australia earlier “strongly” advised its nationals not to travel to central and western Mindanao, including Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Cotabato City, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Saranggani, Misamis Occidental, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and the Sulu Archipelago and surrounding waters, “due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups.”
It added recent bombings and kidnappings in Zamboanga “demonstrate a heightened threat environment in that area.” — LBG, GMA News
