Philippines: Heightened security measures remain in place in Mindanao as of Dec. 10

Event

Officials continue to enforce heightened security measures in Mindanao. Proclamation 55, ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte in September 2016, remains in effect. The proclamation placed Mindanao under a state of emergency due to persistent violence in parts of the region. Security forces have remained on high alert due to ongoing extremist activity by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the New People's Army (NPA), counterterrorism operations, and continued clashes with militant groups.

Increased security measures have included additional checkpoints along major roads, at regional airports, ports, transport hubs, provincial and city borders, shopping malls, and other crowded places and key installations. Security forces may continue to conduct more intensive screenings of travelers and vehicles; authorities may detain individuals who fail to display valid identification cards. Local officials have advised residents against intercity and interprovincial overland travel, particularly during nighttime. Overnight curfews are possible, though the timing and enforcement may vary by location.

Significant business operations are unlikely, especially in major cities like Davao, General Santos, and Zamboanga. However, local authorities may require 24-hour businesses to issue work schedules with contact details of the company and signed by an authorized officer to employees working overnight. Officials have also advised night employees to work on a buddy system. While these measures could pose minor inconveniences to day-to-day schedules, significant business impact is unlikely.

Context

Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao in May 2017 following the armed conflict in Marawi; the martial law expired December 2019. While officials say the order achieved its objective and that militant groups are unable to launch further large-scale operations such as the Marawi siege, armed groups continue to carry out attacks in Mindanao, prompting the continuation of Proclamation 55. Duterte is unlikely to lift the proclamation in the near term, as authorities continue to cite militant groups, including ASG and NPA, as threats in the region. Additionally, Duterte said, Dec. 7, that he would not allow any ceasefire between the government and the NPA during the rest of his administration through 2022.

Advice

If operating in Mindanao, heed all official instructions and remain nonconfrontational when interacting with security personnel. Use secure transport if travel between cities in Mindanao is necessary and allow additional time to reach destinations due to possible checkpoint delays. Obtain documents from employers if traveling overnight for official purposes. Always carry personal identification. Foreign travelers should always carry their passport and documents stating their purpose of travel. Register and maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.