Philippines: Increased security measures in place nationwide through Jan. 1 for the holiday period

Event

Authorities are bolstering security across the Philippines through at least Jan. 1 for the holiday season, which includes Christmas Day (Dec. 25), Rizal Day (Dec. 30), New Year's Eve (Dec. 31), and New Year's Day (Jan. 1). The Philippine National Police (PNP) will likely deploy thousands of additional personnel in Metro Manila and other major cities to secure crowded public spaces, including shopping malls, open markets, transport hubs, major religious sites, as well as manage traffic on major roads. The PNP is likely to increase patrols in residential areas and around churches during the Simbang Gabi observance Dec. 16-24, when Catholics typically attend pre-dawn masses. Several localities, including Metro Manila, have banned Christmas parties and caroling events as part of COVID-19 measures. Islamist militants and insurgent groups could attempt to stage attacks, particularly against Christian targets, during the holiday period. President Rodrigo Duterte may order the suspension of work in government offices and classes in public schools beyond the announced public holidays at short notice, particularly for Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

Transport Security
Authorities are likely to increase security measures at transport centers, including ports, and on long-distance passenger vessels nationwide. Unattended bags could prompt security operations at transport hubs and facilities. Increased criminal activity, especially theft and robbery, is possible at transport hubs nationwide. Safety remains a significant concern on major highways during the holiday season. Police could establish checkpoints along major highways to and from Metro Manila, as well as on the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA).

Crime
While overall criminal activity has declined during the holiday period in recent years, the threat of pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and robbery remains elevated during the holidays. Police will likely increase patrols and deploy additional personnel at public facilities, including malls, banks, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, to intensify anti-crime measures. Tighter security is highly likely at banks and other financial institutions, which have been targets of armed robbers and organized criminal groups in the past. Residential burglaries are also common during the holiday season.

Terrorism
Authorities may issue terror warnings due to threats posed by militant groups, including Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and the New People's Army (NPA), in Mindanao. The groups may attempt to stage bombings in major cities like Davao and Zamboanga, as well as Basilan and Jolo islands. While officials have not identified any specific terrorist threat to the holiday period as of Dec. 17, officials will probably still intensify measures like checkpoints and random motorist searches, particularly in Mindanao. Potentially disruptive bomb threats may occur at shopping centers, bus terminals, metro rail stations, ports and ferries, and religious sites.

Advice

Exercise caution at shopping centers, transport hubs, and other crowded public spaces. Plan for transport and business disruptions near transport centers and other public facilities due to increased security measures. Allow additional time if traveling to the transport hubs due to possible traffic congestion. Do not carry large sums of money and avoid ostentatious displays of wealth; use ATMs inside banks, hotels, or other businesses, rather than on the street. Closely guard bags and other valuables at malls, airports, ports, and other crowded transport centers. Relinquish valuables if confronted by an armed assailant, as criminals are known to operate in groups and may resort to violence when resisted. Take extra steps to protect unattended residences; do not discuss vacation plans or other personal details around strangers. Ensure adequate security for employees transporting money to and from banks; vary departure times and conduct all transactions discreetly. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.