UK issues travel warning on Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The United Kingdom yesterday issued a travel warning on western and central Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago due to terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups.

“Militant groups operate in rural areas throughout the Philippines. Armed clashes between security forces and militant groups can occur any time without warning; before travelling to rural areas, you should research the area thoroughly,” the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said in an advisory. 

“Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the Philippines, including in Manila,” it added.

British nationals were also urged to remain vigilant at all times and report anything suspicious to local authorities.

There has been an increase in the number of kidnapping incidents, including   attacks targeting foreigners since late 2015. The FCO said the threat extends throughout the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, Palawan and Central Visayas.