The U.S. Embassy in Manila has issued an emergency message to its citizens warning of a “credible threat of a terrorist kidnapping for ransom plot” in Zamboanga in Mindanao.
According to U.S. Embassy, the reported plot targets foreigners. “As a result, the Embassy advises all American citizens residing in or planning to travel to the Zamboanga area to re-evaluate their personal safety situation and consider postponing travel to this area at this time,” the message said.
U.S. government personnel in Zamboanga have been ordered to relocate to more secure locations.
The U.S. Department of State released a travel warning in January advising against non-essential travel to Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of “continuing threats in those areas due to terrorist and insurgent activities.“
“The Embassy wishes to remind all U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and maintain an appropriate level of personal security in all circumstances by reviewing your personal safety plans; remaining aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitoring local news sources for updates,” the latest warning, which expires June 12, said.
