UK advises nationals on Davao ‘threat’

The United Kingdom on Tuesday advised its nationals to be careful when traveling to Davao City and other parts of Mindanao that it said are on alert due to an "unspecified" security threat.

 

In an update to its travel advice for the Philippines, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office also reiterated its advice against travel to some parts of Mindanao due to terrorist activity.

 

"According to recent statements from government officials and media, authorities in Davao and other parts of Mindanao are at a heightened state of alert due to an unspecified security threat," it said.

 

On Sunday, Australia advised its nationals on the heightened security in Davao City and reminded them not to travel to parts of Mindanao due to a "very high threat" of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violence and crime. 

 

"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. We continue to advise you to reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao. We continue to advise you to exercise a high degree of caution overall in the Philippines," it said.

 

Last week, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said he had police and military forces in the area go on alert after receiving a call from President Benigno Aquino III about a supposed threat. 

 

Checkpoints and inspection operations had been intensified in Davao City to thwart the alleged threat. 

 

Travel to parts of Mindanao

 

Meanwhile, the UK FCO maintained its advice against all travel to southwest Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of "on-going terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups."

 

It advised against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao.

 

According to the FCO, there is a "high threat from terrorism throughout the country."

 

"Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and have the capacity and the intent to carry out attacks at anytime and anywhere in the country. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners like airports, shopping malls, public transport and places of worship," it said.

 

Also, it warned of the threat of "violent crime, including gun crime."

 

"There is a high incidence of street crime and robbery. You should take sensible precautions. Arrange to be met at the airport or use a hotel transfer service. Only use taxis from a reputable company. Avoid displaying cash or jewellery. Beware of strangers offering drinks or confectionery. They may be spiked," it added. —Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News