Philippines

WARDEN MESSAGE

 

Message to U.S. Citizens

U.S. Embassy, Manila

January 24, 2012

THIS NOTICE REPRODUCES IN FULL A WORLDWIDE ALERT ISSUED BY THE US DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND IS NOT SPECIFIC TO THE PHILIPPINES.    THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES.  PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.  THANK YOU.

 

WORLDWIDE CAUTION

 

The Department of State has issued this Worldwide Caution to update information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens
and interests throughout the world.  U.S. citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.  This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated July 26, 2011, to provide updated information on security threats and terrorist activities worldwide.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas.  Current information suggests that al-Qaida, its affiliated organizations, and other terrorist organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

Extremists may elect to use conventional or non- conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests.  Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during
holidays.

U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public  transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.  Extremists have targeted
and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services.  In the past several years, these types of attacks have occurred in cities such as Moscow, London, Madrid, Glasgow, and New York City.

EUROPE:  Current information suggests that al-Qaida, its affiliated organizations and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. and Western interests in Europe.  European governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attack, and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat
conditions.  In the past several years, attacks have been planned or occurred in various European cities.


MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA:  Credible information indicates terrorist groups also seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa.  For example, Iraq remains dangerous and unpredictable.  U.S. military forces have withdrawn as of December 31, 2011 but the threat of attacks against U.S. citizens, including kidnapping and terrorist violence, is expected to continue.  Methods of attack have included roadside improvised explosive devices,
mortars, and shootings.  Security threat levels remain high in Yemen due to terrorist activities there.  The U.S. Embassy has had to close several times in response to ongoing threats by al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP).  U.S. citizens as well as other Westerners have been targeted for attack in Yemen.  U.S. citizens have also been the targets of numerous terrorist attacks in Lebanon in the past (though none recently) and the threat of anti-Western terrorist activity continues to exist there.  In Algeria, terrorist attacks occur  regularly, particularly in the Kabylie region of the country.  In the past, terrorists have targeted oil processing facilities in both Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Some elements in Iran remain hostile to the United States.  U.S. citizens should remain cautious and be
aware that there may be a more aggressive focus by the Iranian government on terrorist activity against U.S citizens.

The events of last year’s Arab Spring, which affected many countries in the Middle East including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, and Syria, have resulted in civil unrest and large-scale protests and demonstrations.  U.S. citizens are warned that
demonstrations intended to be peaceful can escalate into violent clashes.  U.S. citizens are reminded that demonstrations and riots can occur with little or no
warning.  U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations if possible and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of a demonstration.

AFRICA:  A number of al-Qaida operatives and other extremists are believed to be operating in and around Africa.  Since the July 11, 2010 terrorist bombings in
Kampala, Uganda, for which the Somalia-based, U.S.- designated Foreign Terrorist Organization al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility, there have been increased threats against public areas across East Africa.  The terrorist attacks of October 2011 against the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and African Union (AU) peacekeeping forces in Somalia, as well as the grenade attacks against a nightclub and bus stop in downtown Nairobi, Kenya, highlight the vulnerabilities
to terrorist attacks in East Africa and around the world.  Additionally, the terrorist group al-Qaida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has declared its intention to attack Western targets throughout the Sahel (which includes Mali, Mauritania, and Niger).  It has claimed responsibility for kidnappings, attempted
kidnappings, and the murder of several Westerners throughout the region, including southern Algeria. In Nigeria, a group known as Boko Haram claimed
responsibility for an August 26, 2011, suicide bombing attack on the United Nations Headquarters in Abuja that killed 25 people and wounded more than 120.

U.S. citizens considering travel by sea near the Horn of Africa or in the southern Red Sea should exercise extreme caution, as there has been a notable increase in armed attacks, robberies, and kidnappings for ransom by pirates.  Merchant vessels continue to be hijacked in Somali territorial waters, while others have been hijacked as far as 1,000 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya in international waters.

The U.S. government maritime authorities advise mariners to avoid the port of Mogadishu and to remain at least 200 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia.  In
addition, when transiting around the Horn of Africa or in the Red Sea, it is strongly recommended that vessels travel in convoys and maintain good communications at
all times.  U.S. citizens traveling on commercial passenger vessels should consult with the shipping or cruise ship company regarding precautions that will be
taken to avoid hijacking incidents.  Commercial vessels should review the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s suggested piracy countermeasures for vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, which can be found
at room_landing_page/horn_of_ africa_piracy/horn_of_africa_piracy.htm

SOUTH ASIA:  The U.S. government continues to receive information that  terrorist groups in South and Central Asia may also be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. government facilities, U.S. citizens, or U.S. interests.  The presence of al-Qaida and its affiliates [Taliban elements, Lashkar-e-Taiba,
indigenous sectarian groups, and other terror organizations], many of which are on the U.S. government’s list of Foreign Terror Organizations (FTOs), poses a potential danger to U.S. citizens in the region.  Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and ability to attack targets where U.S. citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit.  Their actions may include, but are inot limited to, vehicle-born explosive attacks, improvised explosive device attacks, assassinations, carjackings, rocket attacks, assaults, or kidnappings.

Such attacks have occurred in a number of South Asian states, including Pakistan, where a number of extremist groups continue to target U.S. and other Western citizens and interests, and Pakistani government and military/law enforcement personnel.  Suicide bombing attacks continue to occur throughout the country on a
regular basis, often targeting government authorities such as police checkpoints and military installations, as well as public areas such as mosques, and shopping
areas.  Kidnappings of U.S. citizens are also on the increase.  In Afghanistan, remnants of the former Taliban regime and the al-Qaida terrorist network, as well as other groups hostile to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)/NATO military operations, remain active.  There is an ongoing threat of kidnapping and
assassination of U.S. citizens and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) workers throughout the country. There is an increased threat of terrorism in India. Terrorists have targeted public places in India frequented by Westerners, including luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas.

CENTRAL ASIA:  Supporters of terrorist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, al-Qaida, the Islamic Jihad Union, and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic
Movement are active in the Central Asian region. Members of these groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and attacked U.S. government interests in the past.  Previous terrorist attacks conducted in Central Asia have involved improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, assassinations, and kidnappings.

EAST ASIA: Regional and international terrorist organizations remain active in  the region and have attacked U.S. interests in the past.

————-
Before You Go
————-

The Department of State encourages U.S. citizens living overseas or planning to  travel abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  When
you enroll in STEP, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  Enrolling will also make it easier for the Embassy to contact you
in the event of an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date; it is particularly important when you enroll or update your information to include a current phone number and e-mail address.

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal
security.  For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on our website, http://travel.state.gov/ (http://travel NULL.state NULL.gov/).

U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert.  These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture.  In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

As the Department of State continues to develop information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents, including Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, Country Specific Information, and Emergency Messages, all of which are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov/ (http://travel NULL.state NULL.gov/).  Stay up to date by bookmarking our website or downloading our free Smart Traveler iPhone App for travel information at your fingertips.  Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

In addition to information on the internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).

 

 

____________________________________________________________________________

Message for U.S. Citizens – Travel Warning

U.S. Embassy Manila

January 6, 2012

 

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE EMBASSY WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES.  PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.  THANK YOU.

 

TRAVEL WARNING

PHILIPPINES

 

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of terrorist activity in the Philippines. While most of the recent incidents of terror have occurred on the island of Mindanao and in the Sulu Archipelago, U.S. citizens are reminded that terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur in any area of the country, including Manila.  Public gathering places may be targeted, including (but not limited to) airports, shopping malls, conference centers and other public venues.  This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning dated June 14, 2011, and reflects continuing threats due to terrorist and insurgent activities.

U.S. citizens should exercise extreme caution if traveling to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago.  Regional terrorist groups have carried out bombings resulting in injuries and death.  Sporadic clashes have occurred between criminal groups and the Philippine Armed Forces throughout Mindanao, particularly in rural areas.  U.S. government employees must receive authorization from the Embassy to travel to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago.

Kidnap-for-ransom gangs continue to be active throughout the Philippines and have targeted foreigners, including U.S. citizens.  U.S. citizens should exercise caution when traveling in the vicinity of demonstrations, since they can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

A state of emergency is in effect for the Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces, as well as for Cotabato City in Mindanao.  Travelers should expect heightened police activity and a significant military presence in these areas as well as restrictions that Philippine government officials may impose on travel in those areas.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. The Worldwide Caution reminds U.S. citizens that terrorism can occur anywhere.

We encourage all U.S. citizens in the Philippines to enroll with the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or at the U.S. Embassy in Manila.  By enrolling, you can receive the Embassy’s most recent security and safety updates during your trip.  Enrolling also ensures that we can reach you, or your designated emergency points of contact, during an emergency.

 

The U.S. Embassy is located at: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines, tel. 63-2-301-2000.  The American Citizens Services (ACS) section’s fax number is 63-2-301-2017, and you may reach the ACS Section by email at ACSinfoManila@state.gov (ACSinfoManila null@null state NULL.gov).  The ACS Section’s website
includes consular information and the most recent messages to the U.S. citizen community in the
Philippines.

U.S. citizens should also review the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for the Philippines and stay up to date by bookmarking the Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.  Follow us on Twitter and become a fan of the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well. You can also download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.  If you don’t have internet access, current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States, or for callers from other countries, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

____________________________________________________________________________

WORLDWIDE CAUTION

July 26, 2011
The Department of State has issued this Worldwide Caution to update information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world.  U.S. citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.  This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated January 31, 2011, to provide updated information on security threats and terrorist activities worldwide.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas.  The Department of State believes there is an enhanced potential for anti-American violence given the death of Osama Bin Laden in May 2011.  Current information suggests that Al-Qa’ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.  These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.

Extremists may elect to use conventional or non-conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests.  Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays.

U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.  Extremists have targeted and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services.  In the past several years, these types of attacks have occurred in cities such as Moscow, London, Madrid, Glasgow, and New York City.

 

Current information suggests that Al-Qa’ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. and Western interests in Europe.  European governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attack, and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions.  In the past several years, attacks have been planned or occurred in various European cities.
Credible information indicates terrorist groups also seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa.  For example, Iraq remains dangerous and unpredictable.  Attacks against military and civilian targets  throughout Iraq continue.  Methods of attack have included roadside improvised explosive devices, mortars, and shootings; kidnappings still occur as well.  Security threat levels remain high in Yemen due to terrorist activities there.  The U.S. Embassy has had to close several times in response to ongoing threats by Al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP).  U.S. citizens as well as other Westerners have been targeted for attack in Yemen.  U.S. citizens have also been the targets of numerous terrorist attacks in Lebanon in the past (though none recently) and the threat of anti-Western terrorist activity continues to exist there.  In Algeria, terrorist attacks occur regularly, particularly in the Kabylie region of the country.  In the past, terrorists have targeted oil processing facilities in both Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

The events of the last few months in many countries in the Middle East, including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, and Syria, have resulted in civil unrest and large-scale protests and demonstrations.  The situation in Libya remains volatile and dangerous and the threat of violent military and terrorist operations remains high, even in opposition-controlled areas.  U.S. citizens are warned that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can escalate into violent clashes.  U.S. citizens are reminded that demonstrations and riots can occur with little or no warning.  U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations if possible and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of a demonstration.

A number of Al-Qa’ida operatives and other extremists are believed to be operating in and around Africa.  Since the July 11, 2010 terrorist bombings in Kampala, Uganda, for which the Somalia-based, U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility, there have been increased threats against public areas across East Africa.  The terrorist attacks of August and September 2010 against the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and African Union (AU) peacekeeping forces in Somalia, as well as the bombing of hotels and minibuses in Somalia, highlight the vulnerabilities to terrorist attacks in East Africa and around the world.  Additionally, the terrorist group Al-Qa’ida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has declared its intention to attack Western targets throughout the Sahel (which includes Mali, Mauritania, and Niger).  It has claimed responsibility for kidnappings, attempted kidnappings, and the murder of several Westerners throughout the region, including southern Algeria.

U.S. citizens considering travel by sea near the Horn of Africa or in the southern Red Sea should exercise extreme caution, as there has been a notable increase in armed attacks, robberies, and kidnappings for ransom by pirates.  Merchant vessels continue to be hijacked in Somali territorial waters, while others have been hijacked as far as 1,000 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya in international waters.

The U.S. government maritime authorities advise mariners to avoid the port of Mogadishu and to remain at least 200 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia.  In addition, when transiting around the Horn of Africa or in the Red Sea, it is strongly recommended that vessels travel in convoys and maintain good communications at all times.  U.S. citizens traveling on commercial passenger vessels should consult with the shipping or cruise-ship company regarding precautions that will be taken to avoid hijacking incidents.  Commercial vessels should review the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s suggested piracy countermeasures for vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, which can be found at room_landing_page/horn_of_africa_piracy/horn_of_africa_piracy.htm (http://www NULL.marad NULL.dot NULL.gov/news_room_landing_page/horn_of_africa_piracy/horn_of_africa_piracy NULL.htm)

 

The U.S. government continues to receive information that terrorist groups in South and Central Asia may also be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. government facilities, U.S. citizens, or U.S. interests.  The presence of Al-Qa’ida and its affiliates [Taliban elements, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, indigenous sectarian groups, and other terror organizations, many of which are on the U.S. government’s list of Foreign Terror Organizations
(FTOs), poses a potential danger to U.S. citizens in the region.  Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and ability to attack targets where U.S. citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit.  Their actions may include, but are not limited to, vehicle-born explosive attacks, improvised explosive device attacks, assassinations, carjackings, rocket attacks, assaults, or kidnappings.

Such attacks have occurred in a number of South Asian states, including Pakistan, where a number of extremist groups continue to target U.S. and other Western citizens and interests, and Pakistani government and military/law enforcement personnel.  Suicide bombing attacks continue to occur throughout the country on a regular basis, often targeting government authorities such as police checkpoints and military installations, as well as public areas such as mosques, and shopping areas.  In Afghanistan, remnants of the former Taliban regime and the Al-Qa’ida terrorist network, as well as other groups hostile to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)/NATO military operations, remain active.  There is an ongoing threat of kidnapping and assassination of U.S. citizens and Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) workers throughout the country.  There is an increased threat of terrorism in India.  Terrorists have targeted public places in India frequented by Westerners, including luxury and other
hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas.

Supporters of terrorist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, Al-Qa’ida, the Islamic Jihad Union, and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement are active in the Central Asian region.  Members of these groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and attacked U.S. government interests in the past.  Previous terrorist attacks conducted in Central Asia have involved improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, assassinations, and kidnappings.

————-
Before You Go
————-

The Department of State encourages U.S. citizens living overseas or planning to travel abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  When you enroll in STEP, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  Enrolling will also make it easier for the Embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date; it is particularly important when you enroll or update your information to include a current phone number and e-mail address.

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and  take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.  For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on our website, http://travel.state.gov/ (http://travel NULL.state NULL.gov/).

U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert.  These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture.  In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens.  U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

As the Department of State continues to develop information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents, such as Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, Country Information, and country specific Messages and Emergency Messages, all of which are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov/ (http://travel NULL.state NULL.gov/).  Stay up to date by bookmarking our website or downloading our free Smart Traveler iPhone App for travel information at your fingertips.  Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

In addition to information on the internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).

 


_______________________________________

June 15, 2011

 

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE EMBASSY WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES.  PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.  THANK YOU.

—————————————————-

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of terrorist activity in the Philippines, particularly in the Sulu Archipelago and on the island of Mindanao.  Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur in other areas, to include Manila.  Targeted sites may be public gathering places including, but not limited to, airports, shopping malls, conference centers, and other public venues.  This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning dated November 2, 2010, and updates specific regions of concern and reflects continuing threats due to terrorist and insurgent activities.

 

Travelers should exercise extreme caution if traveling to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago.  Regional terrorist groups have carried out bombings resulting in injuries and death.  Sporadic clashes have occurred between lawless groups and the Philippine Armed Forces throughout Mindanao, particularly in rural areas.  U.S. Government employees must seek special permission to travel to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago.

 

The Philippine government declared a state of emergency on November 24, 2009, for the Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat provinces, as well as Cotabato City in Mindanao, as a result of election-related violence.  Although the elections have passed, this state of emergency is still in effect.  Travelers should be aware of heightened police activity and significant military presence in these areas.  They should carefully research restrictions imposed on travel and follow the instructions of government officials.

 

Kidnap-for-ransom gangs are active throughout the Philippines and have targeted foreigners.  U.S. citizens traveling, living, and working throughout the Philippines are urged to exercise heightened caution in public gathering places.  U.S. citizens should exercise caution when traveling in the vicinity of demonstrations since they can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

 

The Department of State remains concerned about the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world.  The Worldwide Caution reminds U.S. citizens that terrorism can occur anywhere.

 

We encourage all U.S. citizens in the Philippines to enroll with the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or at the U.S. Embassy in Manila.  By enrolling, you can receive the Embassy’s most recent security and safety updates during your trip.  Enrolling also ensures that we can reach you, or your designated emergency points of contact, during an emergency.  The U.S. Embassy is located at: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines, tel. 63-2-301-2000.  The American Citizens Services (ACS) section’s fax number is 63-2-301-2017, and you may reach the ACS Section by email at ACSinfoManila@state.gov (ACSinfoManila null@null state NULL.gov).  The ACS Section’s website includes consular information and the most recent messages to the U.S. citizen community in the Philippines.

 

For more detailed information on general crime and security issues in the Philippines, please see the State Department’s Country Specific Information for the Philippines.

 

You may also obtain information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

 

Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which also contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and become a fan of the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

 

 

American Citizens Services

U.S. Embassy, Manila, Philippines

Tel: (63 2) 301-2000 extensions 2246 or 2567

Fax: (63 2) 301-2017

Website: http://manila.usembassy.gov/ (http://manila NULL.usembassy NULL.gov/)

_________________________________________________________________________

U.S. Embassy Manila

WARDEN MESSAGE

April 27, 2011

 

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE EMBASSY WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES.  PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.  THANK YOU.

—————————————————-

Taal Volcano

The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens in the Philippines to avoid the Volcano Island in the center of the Taal Volcano, located in the Province of Batangas, approximately 60 kilometers (37.28 miles) south-southeast of Manila, on the island of Luzon.  The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) maintains an Alert LEVEL 2 over Taal Volcano.  This alert level means that magma is rising towards the surface of the volcano, as manifested by carbon dioxide being released in the Main Crater Lake and an increase in seismic activity.  PHIVOLCS advises the public that the main crater, Daang Kastila Trail, and Mt. Tabaro (1965-1977 eruption site) are strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and a high concentration of toxic gases may accumulate.

 

The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that the Philippine government has established that the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and has stated that permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended.  No residents are allowed within the danger zone.  Updated information on volcanoes in the Philippines is available at http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/ (http://www NULL.phivolcs NULL.dost NULL.gov NULL.ph/)

 

The Embassy urges all U.S. citizens contemplating travel to the vicinity of the Taal Volcano to strictly observe any Philippine government restrictions on travel into the PDZ and to pay close attention to daily status reports issued by PHIVOLCS.  U.S. citizens are also encouraged to inform the Embassy of any travel plans in the area.

 

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may telephone the Embassy at (63)(2) 301-2000.  In case of an emergency outside business hours, citizens may reach the Embassy duty officer through the Embassy operator at (63)(2) 301-2000.  The U.S. Embassy is located at: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila, Philippines. The Consular American Citizen Services (ACS) section’s fax number is (63)(2) 301-2017, email address is acsinfomanila@state.gov (acsinfomanila null@null state NULL.gov) and the web page is at http://manila.usembassy.gov (http://manila NULL.usembassy NULL.gov/).

 

The Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens residing or traveling in the Philippines enroll with the U.S. Embassy’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at:  https://travelregistration.state.gov (https://travelregistration NULL.state NULL.gov/).

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov (http://travel NULL.state NULL.gov/), where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and health-information resources can be found.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada or, for callers in other areas by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

 

 

 

 

American Citizens Services
U.S. Embassy, Manila, Philippines
Telephone: (63 2) 301-2000  extensions 2246 or 2567
Fax: (63 2) 301-2017

____________________________________________________________________