MANILA: Citing “reliable reports,” two countries – Australia and the United Kingdom – warned separately on Tuesday about an “imminent” terror attack in Manila following a foiled attack on the United States. “Reliable reports indicate that terrorist attacks may be imminent in Manila, including places frequented by foreigners such as large shopping malls and convention centers,” the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in its travel advisory. The government body advised Australians to “exercise a high degree of caution” in the Philippines because of the “high threat of terrorist attack” and the “high level of serious crime.” “Terrorist attacks could occur at anytime, anywhere in the Philippines, including in Manila. We continue to receive credible reports indicating terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets in a variety of locations, including places frequented by foreigners. You should avoid places known to be terrorist targets,” it said. At the same time, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office said it has received credible intelligence information warning about a “high” terrorism threat in the Philippines. “There is a high threat from terrorism throughout the Philippines. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travelers. Such places could include, but are not limited to, airports, shopping malls, places of worship etc.,” the British office said in an updated travel advisory on Tuesday. However, despite the foreign warnings, the Philippine government continued to assure its people and foreign residents that there is no cause for alarm since it has not validated any reported terror threats.
