United Kingdom advises against travel to Mindanao

The Embassy of the United Kingdom issued a travel advisory for its citizens, warning them from traveling to Mindanao because of 'ongoing terrorist activity.'

Specifically, the embassy warned of the October 5 in Kidapawan City.  

"We advise against all travel to Mindanao because of ongoing terrorist activity. There are frequent terrorist attacks against civilian targets throughout Mindanao. Most recently, on 5 October 2007, two bombs exploded in Kidapawan City reportedly killing two and injuring 30 others," the advisory noted.

"We also advise against all travel to the Sulu archipelago including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo, where there are ongoing military and police operations against insurgent groups," it said.

The UK advisory pointed out that there is a high threat from terrorism throughout the Philippines. 

"Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and have the capacity and the intent to carry out these attacks at any time and anywhere in the country.  Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets in public places including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers," it warned.

Around 65,000 British tourists visit the Philippines every year, with most visits trouble-free.