We advise against all travel to south-west Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of on-going terrorist activity and clashes between the military and insurgent groups. The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the remainder of Mindanao for the same reasons. See Terrorism and Local Travel.
Typhoon Haiyan – locally named – Yolanda – has developed into an intensely powerful weather system and is due to cross central parts of the Philippines from 8 November, bringing extremely hazardous sea and weather conditions to a wide area. Local evacuation orders may be in place. You should closely monitor local weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the island of Bohol on 15 October.
There is a high threat from terrorism, including kidnapping. Be aware of a credible and imminent kidnap threat against foreigners in Zamboanga del Norte Province in Mindanao.
On 10 October the US Embassy issued an emergency message to US citizens warning them of the continuing threat from terrorism in southern Mindanao, including Davao, North and South Cotabato, Sultan Kudurat, Sarangani and Maguindinao.
On 16 September 2013 the Philippine Bureau of Immigration warned foreign nationals against joining rallies and other mass action protests. Foreign nationals taking part in these rallies may face deportation for violating Philippine immigration laws.
On 9 September 2013 armed clashes took place between militants and the Philippines security forces in Zamboanga city. Sporadic fighting continues and the city’s airport has been closed. A curfew is in place from 8pm until 5am. We advise against all travel to this region. Any foreign nationals in Zamboanga city should remain indoors and follow the instructions of local authorities.
With the exception of Philippine Airlines (PAL), all air carriers certified in the Philippines are banned from operating to/from the EU.