By Lane Afable, News Editor
The U.S. Embassy in Manila warns U.S. citizens of recents intensified operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines against the New People’s Army (NPA).
U.S. citizens have been present during recent military actions against the NPA.
On April 19, 2026, armed clash resulted in the deaths of two Americans. We advise Americans in the Philippines and around the world to abide by local laws and to avoid situations with elevated security risk.
The NPA is designated a foreign terrorist organization by the governments of the United States and the Philippines.
Anyone in proximity of NPA elements is at grave risk of arrest, injury, or death.
Foreign terrorist organizations actively recruit Americans to participate directly in terrorist activities and/or provide financial support.
Areas of Heightened Concern include rural, mountainous regions of Leyte, Mindoro, Negros, and Samar, all of which have seen recent fatal clashes between NPA and Philippine forces.
Actions to Take:
Do not affiliate with terrorist or insurgent groups. If you unwittingly become associated with a group you suspect is engaged in terrorism or armed opposition to the Philippine government, the embassy can help.
Contact us immediately.
If you encounter armed individuals not affiliated with police or military, leave the area immediately.
Some non-governmental organizations have affiliations with the NPA and other violent groups.
Americans seeking to engage in humanitarian activities should work with groups registered with the Philippines National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency and obtain the correct visa.
Volunteer groups should also coordinate with local governments, which can provide reliable security information and local context.
