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Sunday, October 14, 2007
10 Mindanao areas off limits to Canadians
By Bong Garcia
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The Canadian Embassy has advised its citizens in the country against traveling to 10 places in Mindanao identified to have terror threats unless they have compelling business or family reasons to do so.
The travel advisory stated continuing reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines.
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Declared as off limit to Canadians are the Sulu Archipelago, Basilan, the Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga del Sur, Saragani, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao.
“There is a threat of a terrorist attack, which could occur at anytime in this region,” the Canadian embassy stated in its travel advisory.
The travel advisory was issued last Thursday and remained valid until Saturday.
The Canadian embassy noted that in the past there have been several bombings in a number of locations, including but not limited to Cotabato, Kidapawan and General Santos City causing several deaths and numerous injuries.
Two more explosions occurred in Kidapawan City and Cotabato City, also causing several injuries.
Kidnapping for ransom is a threat, as witnessed by a recent instance where a Western couple was abducted and released only after armed intervention.
Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities.
“Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures. Anything suspicious should be reported immediately to the nearest security authority,” the travel advisory said.
Philippine authorities have warned that there may be bomb attacks in Manila and other key cities.
Visitors can expect to be subject to frequent security checks at public and private facilities, including shopping malls and public transportation.
Despite a number of highly publicized arrests of persons allegedly associated with terrorist groups, the threat of terrorist actions remains.
Travel at night outside of metropolitan areas should be avoided, particularly in Mindanao. (Sunnex)For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star General Santos. (October 14, 2007 issue)
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