Australia issues travel advisory to Phl
As authorities allayed con- cerns over a recent US travel advisory for its citizens traveling to or already in southern Cebu, the Australian government has also issued a similar warning, citing risk of kidnapping or other acts of terror targeting foreigners.
The travel alert from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade came a day after the US embassy in Manila advised its nationals to take extra caution when traveling to southern Cebu, specifically in areas around Dalaguete and Santander including Sumilon Island.
“We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines due to the high threat of a terrorist attack and the high level of crime. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times. Monitor the media and other sources about possible new security risks. Seek specific advice for the locations you intend to visit,” the Australian DFAT said on its website.
Malacañang said the Philippine National Police (PNP) is on top of the situation.
“The Australian embassy is just doing its job in ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens. However, we’d like to assure the Australian government that the PNP is on top of the situation,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a text message to The STAR.
Citing the Nov.3 updated US travel advisory, DFAT told Australian citizens “we continue to advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall. Higher levels apply in some parts of the country.”
The DFAT advisory also cited the deadly Sept.2 bomb blast at a night market in Davao City that prompted President Duterte to declare a nationwide state of emergency due to lawless violence. The blast killed more than 70 people and hurt 14 others.
“Travelers should expect an increased police presence across the Philippines, including police checkpoints. Continue to exercise heightened vigilance and follow the advice of local authorities,” the advisory read.
It its advisory, the US embassy said American travelers should “review personal security plans; remain aware of their surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.”
The US also urged its citizens to be “vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”
“The embassy reminds US citizens of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines.”
In a statement, the Department of Tourism said foreign travelers have nothing to worry about and that the alleged security concerns cited in the US travel alert are being verified.
“We understand fully the concern of the US government even as we assure them that Philippine law enforcement authorities and security forces are on top of the country’s peace and order situation,” the DOT said in a statement.
The DOT said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the PNP were checking the veracity of reports on possible terror attacks.
“To allay fears over unsubstantiated reports of threats to foreign nationals visiting two southern Cebu localities, the PNP and AFP have beefed up security measures in those areas and elsewhere in the country,” the DOT said.
“In view of the foregoing and the heightened awareness and cooperation on the part of both the public and the private sectors, we maintain that the country remains generally a safe and pristine haven for international and domestic tourists,” the DOT pointed out.