Canada reiterates travel advisory on RP

The Canadian embassy in Manila reiterated yesterday its travel advisory warning its nationals against large political gatherings for the May 14 elections because of the "potential for violence" at such events.

"In the run-up to the midterm elections in May, the frequency and size of political rallies, protests and demonstrations are expected to increase, as is the potential for violence. Canadians are advised to avoid large public gatherings," the embassy said in its advisory dated March 5.

Canada was the first to issue a travel advisory to its citizens warning against election-related violence.

The murder of Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin Jr. on Dec. 16, 2006 after attending a church wedding in Quezon City was believed to be election-related and Abra Gov. Vicente Valera was accused of masterminding the murder.

Gunmen also shot dead Daram, Samar Mayor Benito Astorga in January.

The travel advisory reiterated the embassy’s earlier advice to Canadian nationals against all travel to Mindanao, including the Sulu archipelago and the Zamboanga peninsula, "unless you have critical or compelling business or family reasons."

The embassy said there is still a high threat of a terrorist attack, "which could occur at any time in this region."

"Continuing reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines," the advisory said. – Pia Lee-Brago