Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) – The United States Embassy has warned its citizens of possible kidnappings by terror groups in the central Philippines.
The embassy said in an alert on Friday that it received “unsubstantiated yet credible information” of the threat.
It advised its citizens to keep the threat in mind as they make travel plans to the Visayas islands, particularly Cebu and Bohol.
The US Embassy also urged its citizens to be vigilant, and avoid large crowds and gatherings.
It added “there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines.”
Below is U.S. Embassy’s full advisory:
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Travel Advisory for Central Visayas
The U.S. Embassy has received unsubstantiated yet credible information that terrorist groups may attempt to conduct kidnappings in Central Visayas, which includes both Cebu and Bohol provinces. U.S. citizens are advised to carefully consider this information as you make your 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 7, 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.
