US embassy warning: Philippines on alert

2012-09-29 13:29

Protesters clash with police in Cairo. Protests against the anti-Islam film have spread around the world. (AP)

Manila - Philippine security forces were on stepped-up alert on Saturday after the US embassy issued an emergency advisory about an alleged threat against Americans in the capital.

"As a matter of precaution, we have augmented security," deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said. "Police visibility has been heightened."

The US embassy said in its advisory that the "threat against American citizens in metropolitan Manila ... has been detected by reliable security forces" but it did not give details on the nature of a possible attack.

"This threat remains in effect until October 10," the embassy said in the advisory posted on its website on Friday.

Britain, Australia and Canada also issued warnings to their citizens, citing the US advisory.

"Any attack could be indiscriminate, and we advise British nationals to exercise particular caution and extra vigilance in places frequented by expatriates and foreign nations," Britain's advisory said.

Australia stressed the need for its citizens to avoid travelling to the conflict-wracked southern region of Mindanao, and Canada urged its citizens to be "extremely vigilant and increase their personal security awareness".

"Bomb attacks could occur at any time in Manila and other key cities," Canada said in its advisory.

"Targets could include places frequented by foreigners, such as large shopping malls and convention centres."

Philippine police earlier stepped up security at the US embassy in Manila after violent protests in several countries over a US amateur film considered insulting to Islam.

- SAPA