Planning a trip to the Philippines? If Mindanao is on your itinerary, be sure to check the latest travel advisories, particularly if you’re a Canadian citizen. Canada recently updated its travel advice for Mindanao, offering some positive changes alongside ongoing security concerns.
Also read: 20 Unspoilt Beaches in Mindanao You’ve Probably Never Heard of
Canada eases Mindanao travel restrictions for travellers
The good news? Canada has removed two destinations from its “travel warning” list. Travellers can now breathe a sigh of relief if they were eyeing a trip to Camiguin or Dinagat Islands. Evidently these beautiful islands are deemed to have improved security situations.
There’s more positive news! Two other Mindanao provinces, Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental, have been downgraded in Canada’s travel advisory. Canadian authorities have downgraded these destinations from “Avoid all travel” to “Avoid non-essential travel,” indicating a perceived decrease in security risks.
However, caution is still advised for a significant portion of Mindanao. Canada strongly advises against travel to several areas due to ongoing threats of terrorism, armed clashes, and kidnappings. These areas include:
- Basilan
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Cotabato
- Lanao del Sur
- Lanao del Norte
- Maguindanao
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Misamis Occidental
- Sarangani
- South Cotabato
- Sultan Kudarat
- Sulu
- Tawi-Tawi
- Zamboanga Sibugay
Still, Canada highlights the presence of extremist groups and the possibility of bomb threats as key security concerns in Mindanao. These threats are concentrated in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, the Zamboanga Peninsula, and the Sulu archipelago.
Travelling with caution
For those considering travel to Central and Eastern Mindanao (excluding Davao City and Siargao Island), Canada advises “avoiding non-essential travel.” While security has improved in some areas, the potential for violence still exists.
If you do decide to travel to Mindanao despite the advisories, Canada offers crucial safety tips. These include staying indoors whenever possible, maintaining situational awareness, and following the instructions of local authorities.
Also read: 10 Adrenaline-Pumping Adventures in Mindanao
Certainly Canada emphasises the limited ability to provide consular assistance in remote areas. As Canada eases Mindanao travel restrictions, still prioritise your safety and exercise extreme caution.
Featured image credit: Alexpunker via Canva Pro
