Canada Warns Citizens to "Exercise High Degree of Caution" When Visiting PH

(SPOT.ph) Canada has warned its citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” when travelling to the Philippines, pointing to ongoing risks linked to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping—particularly in large parts of Mindanao.

In its latest travel advisory, the Government of Canada placed Western Mindanao under “avoid all travel,” while several provinces in Central and Eastern Mindanao are classified as “avoid non-essential travel.”

The highest-level warning applies to Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Cotabato, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Misamis Occidental. Canada cites a “serious threat” of terrorism, kidnapping, high crime levels, and violent clashes between security forces and rebel groups in these locations. It also notes that Canadian consular assistance is limited if citizens get stranded there.

A slightly lower—but still elevated—warning covers Agusan del Norte and Sur, Bukidnon, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur (excluding Davao City), Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Norte (excluding Siargao Island), and Surigao del Sur. These provinces are flagged due to persistent criminal activity.

It's worth noting that this update comes a day after Australian authorities confirmed on December 14 that the father and son accused of carrying out the deadly Bondi Beach mass shooting spent about a month in the Philippines last November before returning to Sydney, where they carried out the attack that killed at least 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration.

However, Philippine security advisers have said there is no verified evidence that the suspects received military-style training while in the country, noting they spent most of their stay in and around their hotel.

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Canada said extremist groups have been active in the southern Philippines for years. While Philippine counterterrorism operations have reduced the frequency of attacks, the threat has not disappeared. Past bombings in public areas of cities such as Cotabato, General Santos, Marawi, Zamboanga, Jolo, Kidapawan, and Isabela are cited as examples, with a warning that future attacks cannot be ruled out—especially during elections, religious holidays, and large public gatherings.

Kidnapping is flagged as a nationwide concern, not just a Mindanao issue. The advisory notes incidents in coastal areas, resorts, marinas, and even Metro Manila, with both locals and foreigners targeted for ransom.

Crime more broadly remains a concern across the country. Canada points to regular incidents of armed robbery, sexual assault, and gang activity, including in major urban centers like Metro Manila and Cebu. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and so-called “swarming” are described as common in crowded areas, particularly malls and public transport hubs.

The advisory also highlights transportation risks. Road conditions are described as often poorly maintained, with reckless driving being common. Motorcycle accidents involving tourists are flagged as frequent and sometimes fatal. Public transport—including jeepneys and buses—is characterized as overcrowded, poorly maintained, and vulnerable to crime. Even taxis are not exempt, with reported cases of extortion prompting Canada to recommend hotel-arranged transport or ride-hailing apps.

Canada stresses that the decision to travel is ultimately up to the individual, but urges travelers to stay informed, monitor local media, and follow instructions from local authorities, especially when moving outside major tourist centers.

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