Revised travel advisory highlights safer regions in Mindanao
BUTUAN CITY -- A significant shift in the travel advisory for Mindanao by the Consulate General of Japan in Davao was announced on December 19, reflecting a more optimistic perspective on the region’s safety and stability.
The revised advisory, which downgraded risk levels in several key areas, underscores the progress made in improving peace and order across the island.
The latest updates classify several locations as Level 1—safe to visit with only basic precautions needed. These include General Santos City, Surigao City, Siargao Islands, and most of the Davao Region, which encompasses vibrant cities like Davao City, Mati City, and Tagum City. These areas, long celebrated for their cultural richness and natural beauty, are now poised to attract more tourists and investors.
The changes follow years of focused collaboration between national agencies, local governments, and communities to address security challenges and foster economic development.
The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), which has played a central role in these efforts, welcomed the revised advisory as a pivotal moment for the region.
MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno emphasized the significance of the development stating,
“The lowering of the travel advisory levels for key areas in Mindanao is a testament to the collective work of the government, the private sector, and the people of Mindanao. This marks not just improved safety, but also a renewed confidence in Mindanao as a destination for tourism, trade, and investment. We have shown the world that Mindanao is a place of resilience, opportunity, and progress.”
Sec. Magno also highlighted the economic opportunities this development brings, particularly for the tourism sector, which is expected to see a surge in domestic and international visitors. He urged stakeholders to maintain the momentum by further strengthening security measures and enhancing infrastructure to support growth.
Despite these advancements, the advisory remains cautious about certain areas still classified as Level 2 or Level 3, including parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Zamboanga Peninsula. These regions continue to face security concerns, and travelers are advised to exercise heightened caution or avoid non-essential trips.
Local leaders across Mindanao expressed optimism about the advisory’s potential to reshape perceptions of the region.
In Davao Oriental, Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat noted that the designation of her city as a Level 1 area reaffirms its reputation as a secure and welcoming destination for travelers.
Tourism operators and business groups are preparing to capitalize on the renewed interest in Mindanao, with plans to highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and burgeoning eco-tourism spots.
The revised advisory is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy while fostering a sense of pride and optimism among Mindanaoans.
As Mindanao continues its journey toward lasting peace and prosperity, the government and stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that the progress achieved so far benefits all sectors of society, cementing the island’s status as a cornerstone of growth for the Philippines. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)