Terrorism behind Glorietta blast can’t be discounted - Australia

Saying terrorism “cannot be discounted," Australia advised its nationals Saturday night to exercise a “high degree of caution" in the Philippines over Friday’s deadly Glorietta 2 explosion. In its travel advisory updated Saturday night (Manila time), Australia said credible reports indicate terrorists are planning attacks in areas such as Metro Manila and Mindanao. “We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines because of the high threat of terrorist attack. We continue to receive credible reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners. Some reports suggest that terrorists could target sites in Metro Manila and Mindanao, including the Sulu Archipelago," it said in its advisory. Australia rated Mindanao as “Do Not Travel," and other areas in the Philippines as “(Travel with) High Degree of Caution." The Australian government, in its advisory, said Friday’s Glorietta 2 blast resulted in several fatalities and a large number of injuries. “Investigations are ongoing but the possibility of a terrorist bomb attack cannot be discounted," it said. Australia said that in February 2005 there were terrorist attacks in Manila “and further attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in the Philippines." “Places frequented by foreigners, such as bars, pubs, shopping malls, fast food outlets and places of worship may be targeted for attack," it said. On the other hand, it said there is a danger of kidnapping throughout the Philippines, including in Manila and around coastal and island tourist resorts throughout the country. It strongly advised its nationals 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 reports indicate terrorists may be planning to conduct attacks against power infrastructure in Mindanao. Credible information indicates terrorists may be in the advanced stages of planning attacks. The attacks may be imminent and could occur at any time, anywhere in Mindanao. Kidnap for ransom gangs are also active," it said. - GMANews.TV