UK travelers advised: Shun RP air carriers, inter-island seacrafts

Following an operating ban on Philippine air carriers by the European Union, the United Kingdom has advised its nationals to avoid flying on Philippine carriers in visiting the Philippines. Moreover, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has maintained its warning against taking small inter-island sea vessels, noting that maritime rescue services in the Philippines may not be comprehensive. “It is recommended that you avoid flying with Philippine certified carriers subject to the EU operating ban. If you already have a flight booked with an airline from the Philippines and it is part of a journey that commenced in the EU, you should consult your travel agency. You should also consult your travel insurance provider," the FCO said in its advisory Thursday. Earlier, the European Union announced an operating ban on all air carriers certified in the Philippines, to take effect on April 1. The UK noted the ban stemmed from an audit of Philippines carriers done by the International Civil Aviation Organization in October 2009, after Philippine regulatory authorities had failed to verify that local airlines comply with international safety standards. Also, the UK advised its government employees to use carriers that are not subject to an operating ban or restrictions with the EU “unless this is unavoidable." Citing Philippine tourism data, the UK FCO noted some 70,000 British tourists visit the Philippines every year. Small sea vessels The UK FCO has maintained its warning against inter-island travel by small boats, noting significant accidents in late 2008 alone. It also noted of a high incidence of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around Philippine waters. “You should be aware that maritime rescue services in the Philippines might not be as comprehensive as they might be in the UK," it added. Avoid political rallies The UK FCO likewise reiterated its warning against demonstrations and large gatherings, especially political events. “You should avoid demonstrations and large gatherings of people. There is often a rise in tensions and political unrest around Public Holidays, political events and important anniversaries," it said. Meanwhile, the UK maintained as well its advice against all travel to southwest Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist and insurgent activity. There are also ongoing clashes between the military and insurgent groups in Sulu including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo, it added. “We advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao. There have been terrorist attacks against civilian targets in Mindanao: in the past two years these have included roads, buses and shopping malls," it said. - LBG, GMANews.TV