Aussies advised to stay away from central and western Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines—The Australian government has advised its citizens against travelling to central and western Mindanao because of “a very high threat” of violence in the region.

In an updated travel advisory issued on Thursday, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade warned its citizens in the Philippines to avoid the provinces on the  Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu Archipelago “ due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, kidnapping, violent crime and violent clashes between armed groups.”

The advisory posted on Australia’s smart travel website also advised Australians to “reconsider your need to travel” to eastern Mindanao.

The Australian government’s general advise for its citizens is to “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling to the Philippines.