Masbate boat tragedy prompts UK travel advisory
GMANews.TV - Thursday, November 6
MANILA, Philippines - The maritime tragedy that killed more than 40 people off Masbate province Tuesday has prompted a travel advisory on the Philippines from the United Kingdom.
A travel advisory on the UK embassy Web site on Wednesday night warned that inter-island travel by small boats can be "dangerous" due to sudden storms.
"Inter-island travel by small boats can be dangerous as storms appear quickly. On 4 November a passenger ferry capsized in strong winds off the island of Masbate in the central Philippines. There were a number of deaths and casualties," it said.
The UK embassy Web site also said that last June, the MV Princess of the Stars capsized off Romblon because of rough seas caused by Typhoon Frank.
On the other hand, the UK embassy said there is a high incidence of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around Philippine waters.
"You should be aware that maritime rescue services in the Philippines may not be as comprehensive as they might be in the UK," it added.
Meanwhile, the UK advisory reiterated its advice against all travel to mainland Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist and insurgent activity.
It also warned of ongoing clashes between the military and insurgent groups in the Sulu archipelago including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo.
"There is a high threat from terrorism throughout the Philippines," it added. - GMANews.TV
Masbate Boat Tragedy Prompts UK Travel Advisory
Reply With Quote
Posting Permissions
