Travel alert in Cebu

Although American in nature, I have never heard of a travel alert for the Visayas before, though locals are playing it down:-


The United States Embassy in Manila yesterday warned Americans in the Philippines to be careful in traveling to Central Visayas, citing “unsubstantiated yet credible information” that terrorist groups might try to conduct kidnappings in the region, particularly in Cebu and Bohol provinces.

“The US 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,” said a travel advisory posted on the US Embassy’s website on Sunday that took security forces in the region and local leaders by surprise.


http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/129080/travel-alert-cebu

I guess it was only a matter of time before the travel warning in place in Mindanao was extended to other parts of the country.

Yes i remember you saying about the threat when leaving Laguna. Asawas ma and pa have gone Bantayan with some of their staff to drum up a bit of business over Holy week along with the exodus of visitors from Cebu. I suppose a relatively small island would be a bit off limits to a threat as the port can easily be monitored should anything happen. Assuming the Police are versed and drilled in such a scenario.

Mmmm coincidence or were the yanks tipped off or totally unrelated?

http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/129248/armed-men-sighted-bohol-town-firefight-govt-troops-ongoing

Why wife's friend understands there's quite a few casualties.

I was only there last week!

seems that they are conducting clearing up operations now.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/166731-abu-sayyaf-leader-killed-bohol

Seems the Australians are advising caution to their citizens (although the news is not quite current as of posting):-

http://www.smh.com.au/world/austral...ppings-in-cebu-and-bohol-20170411-gvj356.html

Maybe, as the ASG are seeing their piracy attempts being cracked down on, they are about to focus on tourists and Westerners.

It's unlikely to be profitable as many Governments refuse to pay ransom money.

However, stories like this do little to persuade tourists to go to the country.

My own decision has been made, and I won't be visiting the country again. It's a tough decision to make, but I've made it with the support of those around me.

Hope all are safe, strong police presence here in Dumagete.

Yes somewhat concerning as I always have always seen Cebu as safe. On a personal level it wouldn't stop me visiting as I have always considered the probabilities however with kids in tow it does put another perspective on the situation. Lets hope it can be stamped upon.