Filtered By: Topstories
News

US, UK, Australia Embassy urge citizens to be cautious after Resorts World incident


The United States, United Kingdom, and Australian Embassy on Friday warned its citizens to take caution following the incident at Resorts World Manila in Pasay City.

"Local media reports gunfire and explosions at Resorts World Manila near the Manila International Airport. Exercise caution and review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Heed any instructions given by local authorities," the US Embassy said in a statement posted on its website.

US Ambassador Sung Kim, in a tweet, expressed concern about the incident.

 


 

US President Donald Trump expressed sadness and sympathy for the victims as he labelled the incident as a "terrorist attack."

The United Kingdom, meanwhile, reminded its nationals "to avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities."

British ambassador to the Philippines Asif Ahmad said in a tweet that no Britons were harmed in the incident.

 


 

Meanwhile, the Australian government reminded its citizens to exercise heightened caution and avoid going to areas near Resorts World Manila.

"There are reports of a major security incident at the Resorts World Hotel in Manila, near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities. Some flights have been redirected from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, contact your airline or tour provider for latest information on flight disruptions," Smart traveller, Australian Government's travel advisory and consular information service said in an advisory posted on its website.

"The deterioration in security in Mindanao has resulted in a more volatile security environment in the Philippines. Travellers are reminded of the high threat of terrorist attack in the Philippines, including Manila. Exercise heightened caution at this time. Be vigilant about your surrounds. Monitor the media for information that may impact on your security," it added.

"Follow local authorities’ advice. The level of this advice has not changed. We continue to advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in the Philippines overall. Higher levels apply in some parts of the country," it further said.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the gunman has been found dead.

He said the suspect covered himself with a blanket before pouring gasoline all over his body and burning himself.

Recovered from the suspect inside a room at the hotel were a submachine gun and a short firearm, Dela Rosa said.

The PNP chief assured that the incident was not a terror attack.

More than 30 died and 54 were hurt in the incident. —Marlly Rome Bondoc/KG, GMA News

LOADING CONTENT