Canada issues travel advisory for 17 Mindanao provinces
Canada has cautioned its citizens against travelling to 17 Mindanao provinces in the Philippines, citing threats of crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping.
In its recent advisory, the Canadian government told Canadians not to travel to the following Philippine provinces due to the presence of extremist groups, serious threat of attacks, kidnapping, piracy and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups:
• Basilan
• Sulu
• Tawi-tawi
• Lanao del Sur
• Maguindanao
• Bukidnon
• Camiguin
• Lanao del Norte
• Misamis Occidental
• Misamis Oriental
• Cotabato
• Sarangani
• South Cotabato
• Sultan Kudarat
• Zamboanga del Norte
• Zamboanga del Sur
• Zamboanga Sibugay
Meanwhile, non-essential travels must be avoided in the following areas:
• Agusan del Norte
• Agusan del Sur
• Dinagat Islands
• Surigao del Norte, excluding Siargao Island
• Surigao del Sur
• Davao de Oro
• Davao del Norte
• Davao del Sur, excluding Davao City
• Davao Occidental
• Davao Oriental
The Canadian government warned against the "risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time."
It said the consular assistance it could provide is only limited.
Should there be need to travel to those areas, the Canadian government advised its citizens to remain indoors as much as possible, be aware of surroundings at all times, avoid crowded places, always travel with identification, expect an increased security presence in public areas, stop at security checkpoints, monitor local media and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.