Australia warns of terror attacks in Metro Manila, Mindanao, Sulu

Terrorists are planning attacks on a "range" of targets in Metro Manila, Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, the Australian government claimed Friday night. In a statement on the Australian embassy Web site, Australia cautioned its nationals to exercise a "high degree of caution" in the Philippines due to the high threat" of terrorist attack. "We continue to receive credible reports that terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets, including places frequented by foreigners. Some reports suggest that terrorists could target sites in Metro Manila and Mindanao, including the Sulu Archipelago. If you do decide to travel, you should exercise extreme vigilance when you are in the Philippines," it said in its advisory. Australia said further attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in the Philippines. Places frequented by foreigners, such as bars, pubs, shopping malls, fast food outlets and places of worship may be targeted for attack. It maintained the bombing at the Batasan complex that killed Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others last Nov. 13 was a terrorist attack. "The Philippine Government is committed to improving security in the Philippines and combating terrorism but further attacks, similar to the terrorist bombings in Mindanao and the Makati central business district of Manila in February 2005 that resulted in a number of deaths, are possible any time, anywhere in the Philippines. Places frequented by foreigners such as bars, pubs, shopping malls, fast food outlets and places of worship, may be targeted for attack," it added. Australia said recent credible reports indicate terrorists may be planning to conduct attacks against power infrastructure in Mindanao. Credible information indicates terrorists may be in the advanced stages of planning attacks. "Attacks may be imminent and could occur at any time, anywhere in Mindanao," it said. It also advised its nationals to avoid political gatherings that may turn violent. "You should avoid any large gatherings, demonstrations, protests, rallies or other public events as they may turn violent. You should monitor the media for information about any protests and follow the advice of authorities," it said. Australia advised its citizens to "consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided." These include places frequented by foreigners such as shopping malls, embassies, expatriate housing complexes, hostels, guest houses, clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars, movie theatres, schools, places of worship, tourist areas, markets and outdoor recreation and major sporting events. Infrastructure associated with the Philippine government such as public transport, airports, seaports, railways, oil depots and public buildings are also potential terrorist targets, it added. "You should not travel on ferries unless no other means of travel is available. Terrorists claimed responsibility for a fire on a ferry traveling between Manila and the central Philippines in February 2004. Further attacks could occur," it said. - GMANews.TV