Australians warned to exercise high degree of caution in Philippines

The Australian government on Wednesday reissued its travel warning to the Philippines, advising Australians to exercise a high degree of caution in the Southeast Asian nation citing the high threat of terrorist attack.

This came days before the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and East Asia Summits are expected to be held in the Philippines.

However, the overall level of the travel advice has not changed.

"We continue to receive credible reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners," the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said in its reissued travel warning.

"Some reports suggest that terrorists could target sites in Metro Manila, Mindanao including the Sulu Archipelago, and Cebu Province," it said.

Places frequented by foreigners, such as bars, pubs, shopping malls, fast food outlets, and places of worship may be targeted for attack, it said.

"There is a danger of kidnapping throughout the Philippines, including in Manila and around coastal and island tourist resorts throughout the country. Terrorists have kidnapped tourists from these areas," it said.

DFAT strongly advise Australians not to travel to Cebu Province where the summits will be held.

"Recent information suggests terrorists are in the final stages of planning attacks. Australians should avoid locations known to be targeted by terrorists, such as places of worship, restaurants, shopping malls, hotels, hostels, guesthouses, bars, clubs, outdoor markets and transport and associated infrastructure," it said.

DFAT also strongly advise Australians not to travel to Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu Archipelago "because of the very high threat of terrorist attack, including kidnapping, and related counter-terrorism operations," it said.

"The attacks may be imminent and could occur at any time, anywhere in Mindanao, including during the period of 9 - 16 January which includes the ASEAN and East Asia Summits. Davao City may be a particular target," it added.

Source: Xinhua