Canadian Embassy reopens

The Canadian Embassy reopened yesterday, a month and two days after it closed down due to alleged terror threats.

The embassy also revised and "downgraded" its travel advisory on the Philippines, telling Canadians that it is now safe to travel to the country.

Even on the holiday marking the death anniversary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, a crowd of about 100 Filipinos stood waiting outside the embassy to have their immigration papers processed.

Embassy First Secretary Robert Burley said yesterday that embassy operations have fully normalized.

"The threats to embassy have diminished and we are also comfortable with the current security being provided for us," he said.

Burley cited the security arrangements made by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to assign more policemen and Marines to guard the mission.

Even as the travel advisory has been downgraded, Burley clarified that they are still warning their citizens not to go to "high risk areas" in the country, particularly some places in Mindanao.

"Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times due to the possibility of further terrorist actions," the advisory said.

"Canadians should monitor local developments and news broadcasts carefully and follow the advice of local authorities," it added.

Canadian Ambassador Robert Collette earlier reiterated that Canada values its relationship with the Philippines and expressed regret over any inconvenience on the closure of the embassy.

The European Union (EU) delegation office and the Australian embassy which also closed on Nov. 28 citing "specific and credible" terrorist threats, have reopened their missions or plan to do so next month.

Philippine officials have said there are no threats and called the closures an overreaction that harmed the country’s image.

Earlier this month, authorities suspended a police intelligence officer who allegedly leaked a report about a terrorist threat that led to the closures.