Canada issues urgent travel advisory warning of danger in the Philippines

The Government of Canada has just issued a warning as a major typhoon is set to make landfall in the Philippines.

On July 23, Canada updated its travel advisory page for the Philippines due to "natural disasters and climate." The government is urging travellers to take extra precautions as the storm is expected to hit the country in the coming days.

"Tropical Storm Co-May is expected to gain typhoon strength and make landfall on the northwestern coast of Luzon, in the Ilocos region, on July 25, 2025," reads the update. "The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds."

The Canadian government's travel advisory warns that the storm may cause flash flooding and landslides. There's also a risk that it could "severely disrupt" transportation, electricity, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, and medical care.

"Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged," reads the statement. "Flooding and mudslides are frequent following heavy rains, even in Metro Manila."

The storm, locally known as Typhoon Emong, has prompted authorities to shut down schools and government offices in Metro Manila and 34 provinces, reports local news site Inquirer.net. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has also cancelled several domestic flights due to the weather.

Canadians in affected areas should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities. You can find the latest active warnings on the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) website.

Although storms can occur throughout the year, the rainy or monsoon season in the Philippines typically runs from May to November, during which the country experiences around 20 typhoons each year.

If you're travelling abroad, you can sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies Canadian citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home.