Philippine Lawmaker Slams U.S. Travel Advisory as Unfair Hit to Tourism

A Philippine lawmaker has sharply criticized a recent U.S. travel advisory, calling it an unfair blow to the nation’s tourism and reputation. Representative Rufus Rodriguez, speaking on Sunday, labeled the U.S. State Department’s warning as a "shotgun approach" that unfairly tarnishes safe destinations like Cagayan de Oro City.

"This advisory paints our country in a bad light," Rodriguez argued, urging the U.S. to reconsider its stance. Issued on May 8, the advisory places the Philippines at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, citing risks of terrorism, kidnappings, and violent crime in public areas like tourist sites and markets. Specific regions, including the Sulu Archipelago and Marawi City, received a Level 4: Do Not Travel warning due to ongoing threats, while Mindanao was flagged under Level 3: Reconsider Travel for similar concerns.

Rodriguez, representing Cagayan de Oro in northern Mindanao, called the advisory biased, particularly against his region. He pressed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Foreign Affairs to challenge U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson on the matter and demanded clarity on efforts to counter the advisory’s impact.

"It’s not just Americans—other tourists will hesitate to visit," he warned, highlighting the potential damage to the Philippines’ vital tourism sector. The advisory notes limited U.S. government resources to assist citizens in high-risk areas, a point Rodriguez contends unfairly overshadows the country’s safer regions.