Australia suspends aid work in Maguindanao due to martial law

The imposition of martial law in Maguindanao province has prompted Australia to suspend its aid work in the Central Mindanao area, at least “until the situation stabilizes." In a travel advice updated Saturday night, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also advised against non-essential travel to the area. “Staff working on Australian aid programs in central Mindanao have been advised to suspend program activities and cancel non-essential travel until the situation stabilizes," it said in its advice. Malacañang on Saturday announced President Arroyo had imposed martial law on Maguindanao in the wake of unrest caused by the massacre of at least 57 people there last November 23. Philippine investigators had indicated the massacre was politically motivated, as the victims led by a member of the Mangudadatu clan were going to file a certificate of candidacy. Australia noted that while martial law was imposed on Maguindanao, a state of emergency remains in effect over Cotabato City and Sultan Kudarat province. It also advised its nationals to continue avoiding large gatherings, demonstrations, protests, rallies or political events lest they turn violent. “You should avoid any large gatherings, demonstrations, protests, rallies or other public and political events as they may turn violent. Political violence will likely become more common in the lead-up to country-wide elections in May 2010. You should monitor the media for information about any protests and follow the advice of authorities," it said. Australia also reminded its nationals that armed clashes between Philippine security forces and insurgent groups, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), could occur without warning, particularly in central Mindanao. It said that while a ceasefire and peace talks were announced, “further intermittent clashes could occur." Also, it cited a continuing high threat of terrorist attack and a high threat of kidnappings against westerners in towns and cities in North Cotabato Province, Sarangani Province, South Cotabato Province, including General Santos City, Sultan Kudarat Province, Lanao del Sur Province and Lanao del Norte Province, including Iligan City. “Attacks occurred throughout Central Mindanao in late 2008 and again in mid-2009 against military and civilian targets. Further attacks cannot be ruled out. If you are in these areas you should consider leaving," it said. - LBG, GMANews.TV