The Canadian government has updated a travel warning to its citizens against traveling in the Philippines’ Mindanao because of alleged terrorist threats in the island.

The Canadian travel warning was added to similar advisories earlier issued by the United States and Australian governments to their citizens. In the Canadian government’s official Website for travel warnings, the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advised against all travel to the Philippines. Canada has issued similar warnings last March but it was validated this month following security problems in Mindanao.

The Web site (www.voyage.gc.ca) said: “You are advised against all travel to Mindanao, including the Sulu Archipelago and the Zamboanga Peninsula, unless you have critical or compelling business or family reasons. There is a threat of a terrorist attack, which could occur at anytime in this region”

It also cited the January 10 explosions in General Santos, Kidapawan City and Cotobato City which killed seven and injured scores of people. Canada told its citizens to exercise caution in other parts of the country including Metro Manila.

“Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities,” the Web site said.

It also advised Canadians to avoid large public gatherings in the day prior to Philippine midterm elections on May 14. “The frequency and size of political rallies, protests, and demonstrations are expected to increase, as is the potential for violence.”

It added: “Attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in the Philippines. Canadians in the Philippines should exercise extreme caution and security awareness, especially in commercial and public establishments, in tourist areas frequented by foreigners and on public transportation.”

The government Web site added that “Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures. Anything suspicious should be reported immediately to the nearest security authority.” The travel warnings were updated after weeks of clashes between members of the military, the Moro National Liberation Front faction led by Habier Malik, and the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group.

The past month saw the beheadings done by the Abu Sayyaf on seven workers after Sulu Gov. Ben Loong failed to pay a ransom of P5 million for the hostages.