“He has said that the muslim issue in Mindanao is pretty serious, and there are parts of that area that are jolly dangerous...?”
Yes, there are provinces on Mindanao that I would not want to visit, but it does not apply to all of the Philippines, or the island.
The Muzies first set up a stronghold on Jolo Island, west of the main island and they have presence in some of the western provinces, but Mindanao is quite large.
There are parts of Mindanao that are fine. Cagayan de Oro and Davao are large and nice cities on Mindanao.
I have been only to Camiguin Island off the north coast.
It was quite nice, and no Muslims.
I have learned something new — thanks!