Philippines: Increased security and disruptions likely during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visit to Manila, July 30

Increased security and disruptions will likely occur in Manila due to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit on July 30. The visit is to enhance bilateral cooperation in several areas, including economic security. Secretary Blinken will meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., and Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo. While neither Manila nor Washington immediately released the precise itinerary for the visit, potential meeting venues include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of National Defense, and the US embassy.

Increased security is likely in Manila, especially near stops on Blinken's itinerary. Authorities will probably set up checkpoints and block roads to facilitate the Secretary of State's movements, leading to localized traffic disruptions. Authorities could temporarily close the airspace around Manila as Blinken arrives and departs the city, causing flight delays. Related demonstrations are possible.