TRAVEL WARNING TO PHILIPPINES (Australian Government) Overall, you should exercise a High Degree of Caution

TRAVEL WARNING TO PHILIPPINES (Australian Government) Overall, you should exercise a High Degree of Caution

Militants may be planning kidnapping operations. Resorts are being notified to take extra precautions.

Summary

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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. You should pay close attention to your personal security at all times. Monitor the media and other sources about possible new security risks.

·Manila will host high level APEC meetings from 16 to 20 November 2015. You should expect increased security and travel disruptions during this period. See Local travel.

·Violent crime is a significant problem in the Philippines. See Safety and security.

·Terrorist attacks could occur at anytime, anywhere in the Philippines, including in Manila. You should avoid places known to be terrorist targets. See Safety and security.

·Information of late October 2015 indicates that militants may be planning a kidnapping operation in North East Mindanao, including the islands off the coast. Resorts in the area are being notified to take extra precautions.

·There is a very high threat of kidnapping in the southern Philippines, especially at coastal resorts and isolated coastal locations. The threat is highest along the Zamboanga peninsula and in the Sulu Archipelago. Groups based in the Sulu Archipelago have demonstrated the capability to carry out attacks at locations around Mindanao and in eastern Malaysia. Recent attacks have also created concerns that these groups have the capability to target locations frequented by tourists in southern Palawan, southern Negros or Siquijor. See Safety and security.

·We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to eastern Mindanao (including the provinces of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental) due to the very high levels of violent crime and the high threat of terrorist attack and kidnapping.

·We advise you not to travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu Archipelago and in the southern Sulu Sea area, due to the very high threat of kidnapping, terrorist attack, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups.

·The typhoon season normally runs from late May to December. This is also the rainy season when tropical storms, flooding and landslides may occur. See Additional information.

·See Travel Smart for general advice for all travellers.

·Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:

·         organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy

·         register your travel and contact details, so we can contact you in an emergency