Iligan blasts trigger UK advisory vs travel to Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines - A twin bombing that killed at least two people in Iligan City Thursday has prompted the British government to issue another travel advisory for its citizens in the Philippines. In its Dec. 19 travel advisory, the United Kingdom Embassy reiterated its call against all travel to mainland Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago noted for insurgency and terrorist activities. "We advise against all travel to mainland Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist and insurgent activity. There have been terrorist attacks against civilian targets in Mindanao. There is also criminal activity in Mindanao, including kidnapping and explosions. The most recent fatal attack was on 18 December 2008 in Iligan City, when two explosions in separate department stores killed two people and reportedly injured over 30 more," it said. Around 70,000 British tourists visit the Philippines every year, the UK embassy noted, adding that terrorist attacks on civilians happen on roads, in buses and shopping malls. Since last Aug. 10, it said there have been clashes between insurgent groups and the Philippine military in North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte provinces. Also, there are ongoing clashes between the military and insurgent groups in the Sulu archipelago including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo. On the other hand, it said there is a high threat from terrorism throughout the Philippines. "Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and have the capacity and the intent to carry out these attacks at any time and anywhere in the country. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travelers," it said. It said, however, that the Philippine government is taking action against the terrorist and kidnapping threat and has tightened security in Metro Manila and other areas considered at high risk, including airports and seaports. - GMANews.TV