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Reviewed: 05 August 2009, 15:42 NZDT
Still current at:
08 November 2009
There is extreme risk to your security throughout Mindanao, Basilan and the Sulu Archipelago (including Sulu and Tawi-Tawi island groups), and we advise against all travel to these areas. Terrorism, kidnapping and violent clashes between the military and terrorist or rebel groups makes travel to these areas extremely dangerous. Since the breakdown of peace negotiations in August 2008, dozens of civilians have been killed or injured by terrorist attacks targeting both military and civilian targets and hundreds of thousands are reported to have been displaced by fighting.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in the Philippines due to the threat from terrorism and risk of kidnapping and we advise caution.
Although a number of suspected terrorists have been arrested and the Philippines government remains committed to combating terrorism and improving security, there continues to be a threat from terrorism. We continue to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks, including in places frequented by foreigners. In November 2007, a bomb exploded in the car park of Congress in Metro Manila, killing six people and injuring several others. In 2004, over 100 passengers were killed following a fire caused by a bomb on board a ferry travelling between Manila and the Central Philippines. Further terrorist attacks could occur any time, anywhere in the Philippines.
There is a risk of kidnapping throughout the Philippines. Kidnap for ransom gangs target foreigners as well as Filipinos, including in Manila and coastal resort areas.
New Zealanders are advised to exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times when travelling anywhere in the Philippines. Crime continues to be a serious concern, especially in Manila. Criminal gangs are active in Manila, including in the Makati central business district, and have drugged and robbed unsuspecting tourists. We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and political gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent.
New Zealanders are advised to avoid using public transport (including buses, the light rail system and passenger ferries), because of security and/or safety concerns. When taking taxis we recommend using only marked taxis from reputable companies or hotel transportation. Ferry accidents are not uncommon in the Philippines, especially when vessels sail in bad weather. In 2008 three ferry accidents resulted in the loss of around 800 lives.
Piracy/maritime crime does occur in coastal areas of the Philippines, particularly in the waters between Sabah in Malaysia and the southern Philippines. Pirates have been known to target ships at anchor, and other vulnerable vessels, off coastal Manila and surrounding waters. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these areas. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report: www.icc-ccs.org
New Zealanders travelling or resident in the Philippines should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in the Philippines are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Southeast Asia
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Street Address 23rd Floor, BPI Buendia Centre, Sen Gil Puyat Avenue
(near Makati Ave), Makati City 1200, Metro Manila, Philippines
Postal Address PO Box 3228 MCPO, Makati City 1270, Manila, Philippines
Telephone +63 2 891 5358
Facsimile +63 2 891 5357
Email nzemmanila@globelines.com.ph
Website New Zealand Embassy Manila [external link]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1230, 1330-1630 hrs
