British travel restrictions to east Mindanao Philippines now lifted

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The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) amended its travel advisory to the Philippines by lifting travel restrictions to the “eastern side of Mindanao.” With limitations eased, the tourism industry prepares for increased arrivals and travel activity in Davao and Caraga regions, which are known as cultural and eco-adventure destinations.

According to Secretary Ace Durano of the Department of Tourism (DOT), “This development signals growth in travel brought about by the strong security measures now being implemented in the area. The best thing about this is that the local communities will directly benefit, with an additional demand to meet.”

“Amendments will encourage tourists from the UK to experience nature, adventure, and culture that the island of Mindanao has to offer,” he added.

The British Government advised its citizens not to travel to any part of Mindanao due to “terrorist and insurgent activity.” For the past two years, the British government advised citizens not to travel to any part of Mindanao because of “terrorist and insurgent activity.”

At present, the political climate has changed, making travel to these areas safe and particularly rewarding, what with the regions’ unique thrills and wonders.

Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr. noted, “It is indeed a welcome respite from the present events that have seemed to be unfair to the tourism industry lately.”

He further said, “Stronger links with other government agencies will be sought more; as we believe this is integral in making certain our country remains a safe destination for all travelers.”

Domingo Ramon Enerio, Tourism Attaché of the Philippine Department of Tourism – London, said, “This positive change is not without the persistent efforts of the Philippine Embassy here in London.”

Enerio was referring to the edited announcement which originally mentioned the whole island of Mindanao. The blanket travel restriction discouraged British travelers from travelling to Mindanao even if they wished to since it would have been impossible for them to obtain the required travel insurance.
With this amendment, British travelers can now receive travel insurance for purposes of experiencing surfing in Siargao, historical tours in Butuan, idyllic day tours in the sands of Pearl Farm in Samal Island and climbing the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo in the Davao region. Hikers will also look forward to trekking and discovering the water falls in Compostela Valley, among others.

“The DOT London will continue with its close relationship with the Philippine Embassy to further improve our image with the FCO,” Enerio added.
Travels to Mindanao by British Government officials during the past two years may have convinced the FCO that certain parts of Mindanao are relatively safe for British travellers to visit.

According to the DOT Research and Statistics Division, British tourists account for the biggest number of European tourists to the Philippines. In the previous year, a total of 87,422 UK tourist arrivals to the country were recorded, which reflected 2.78% of the total traffic for the year.

The DOT is continuously promoting and enhancing tourist packages such as diving, other water sports, and ecotourism activities like bird-watching, to the British market.

Strengthening of ties with cause-oriented groups is also sought. The Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, a leading conservation organization in the UK, will send a fact finding mission this month to assist the DOT and other agencies in the preservation and promotion of wetlands for wildlife habitat.

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