Diane Hora | iMINDSPH
South Cotabato - South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr, who also serves as the President of the League of Province of the Philippines, expressed his disappointment over the recent travel advisory issued by the Canadian Embassy for certain provinces in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, including the SOCCSKSARGEN region.
Released on January 10, 2024, the advisory urged Canadian citizens to avoid traveling to provinces such as Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Sultan Kudarat.
As Region XII's Peace and Order Council Chair, he emphasized that the region is secure and peaceful.
Expressing his dismay, Governor Tamayo Jr questioned the basis of the Canadian embassy's pronouncement. He stated, "I wondered where they obtained their data. As the region's Peace and Order Council Chair, I know that the implementation of security-related programs in the region is excellent. Through our intel community, we know that we have secured and covered all possible entry areas. Region 12 is truly secure."
The governor appealed to the Canadian embassy to reconsider and revoke the travel advisory specifically for Region XII, citing the need to showcase the region's safety and security to tourists.
"I hope they will lift it because I don't know what data they based it on. Right after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr assumed office, we pleaded to lift the State of Emergency issued by the previous administration in Mindanao. I didn't expect that to be the possible basis. Hopefully, the Canadian Embassy will lift the advisory, and we can show that our region is peaceful and secure for tourists," Governor Tamayo Jr added.
Governor Tamayo Jr highlighted the significant progress made in addressing security threats within South Cotabato. He said that the Maguid Group in the province had been completely neutralized, with its members surrendered. Efforts have also been made to dismantle the New People's Army in the region.
The governor emphasized that the Regional Peace and Order Council focuses on security threats and addresses potential clan feuds and other peace and order concerns that may affect Region 12. He assured that the council thoroughly studies and ensures the region's safety.
Governor Tamayo Jr concluded by urging the Canadian Embassy to reassess the situation and lift the travel advisory, allowing visitors to experience the peaceful and secure environment in Region XII.
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