* We strongly advise you not to travel to Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu Archipelago because of the very high threat of terrorist attack, including kidnapping, and related counter-terrorism operations. Recent credible information indicates terrorists may be in the advanced stages of attack planning. The attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in Mindanao, including during the period 9 – 16 January which includes the ASEAN and East Asian Summits. Davao City may be a particular target.
* On 11 October a bomb exploded in a shopping mall in Cotabato City and on 10 October 2006 two explosions occurred, the first in Tacurong (near Isulan) and the second in Makilala, resulting in a number of deaths and injuries. These attacks underline the ongoing terrorist threat in the region. Further attacks are likely. Possible targets include places of worship, restaurants, shopping malls including Mega Malls, hotels, hostels, guesthouses, bars or clubs in major population centres, including but not limited to Davao City, Carmen, Isulan, Kidapawan, Cagayan de Oro City, General Santos City, Cotabato City, Maganoy and Pagadian. If you are in these areas you should consider leaving.
* The alert levels for the Mayon volcano in Albay Province, south east Luzon, and for the Bulusan volcano in Sorsogon Province are currently at Level 1, indicating a decrease probability of volcanic activity. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has established Permanent Danger Zones around both summits. Australians are advised to avoid areas surrounding the volcanoes and to follow the instructions of the local authorities.
* Australians in these regions should take precautions as the ash, dust and toxic fumes emitted from the volcanoes represent a significant health risk.
* Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:
o organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy
o register your travel and contact details, so we can contact you in an emergency
o subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time its reissued.
[tags]davao today, davao, mindanao, australia, philippines, terrorism, terror attacks, asean, asean summit, 12th asean summit, travel advisory, tourism[/tags]
Terrorism
