MANILA — The US embassy in Manila cautioned Americans of possible security checkpoints in Metro Manila, a move it described as a “precautionary measure in light of the declaration of Martial law in Mindanao and not related to any specified terror threat information directed towards” the national capital.
The embassy said it had been informed that the government has placed the Philippines National Police on full alert in Metro Manila and also deployed soldiers to Quezon City to help with “random checkpoints, security patrols, and police visibility operations.”
It reminded Americans that the March 6 “Worldwide Caution” issued by the US government, about “an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against US citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines,” remains in effect.
“Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems–including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather,” it said. “Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses and popular restaurants have also been targets.”
“US citizens should be mindful of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines,” it added.
