The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for its citizens planning to visit the Philippines in response to safety concerns related to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping in certain regions
Dated January 10, the advisory urges Canadian travelers to exercise a high level of caution while in the Philippines and recommends avoiding all travel to specific areas, including Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Sultan Kudarat. In these regions, the “avoid all travel” categorization signifies a significant risk to personal safety and security, and Canadians currently present in these areas are encouraged to depart immediately.
Furthermore, Canadian citizens are advised to “avoid non-essential travel” to the following regions: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte (excluding Siargao Island), Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur (excluding Davao City), and Davao Oriental. This classification implies that while travel may still be necessary for some individuals, caution is paramount, and the decision should be made considering factors such as family or business requirements, familiarity with the region, and other relevant considerations.
Despite the advisory, there has been no official response from the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, or the Philippine National Police regarding Canada’s travel advisory.