In a travel advisory posted on its website issued Tuesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines said it "has received credible information that terrorist groups may be planning to conduct kidnapping operations targeting foreign nationals in the areas of Palawan Province, Philippines, to include Puerto Princesa City, and the areas surrounding Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. U.S citizens are advised to carefully consider this information as they make their travel plans and to review personal security plans, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and remain vigilant at all times."
The U.S. Embassy wishes to remind U.S. citizens of the most recent Worldwide Caution, dated March 6, 2017, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines. Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems–including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather. Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses and popular restaurants have also been targets. U.S. citizens should be mindful of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines."
The UK and Canada have since followed suit, and released advisories on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The British embassy also "advise(s) against all travel to western Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups. The FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao and to the south of Cebu province, up to and including the municipalities of Dalaguete and Badian, due to the threat of terrorism.
Canada advised its citizens to be alert on the threat of kidnapping in Palawan.
Australia, which usually follows the lead of the US, has also issued any travel advisory against Palawan travel at this time. (updated)
The Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) management issued an official statement on its preparedness against terrorism following the release of the U.S. advisory
Park Superintendent Elizabeth Maclang said "We have already coordinated with the authorities, both the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and the police, to be on heightened alert."
Australia, which usually follows the lead of the US, has also issued any travel advisory against Palawan travel at this time.
Palawan, considered one of the world's best islands in the world, is a favourite destination for western travellers.
*Australia was not included in our first report
