The U.S. Embassy in Manila has issued a security advisory following intensified military operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines targeting the New People’s Army, citing recent incidents involving American nationals.
Authorities confirmed that two U.S. citizens were killed during an armed encounter on April 19, 2026, as fighting escalated in areas where government troops are pursuing insurgent forces. The embassy noted that Americans have been present in locations where these clashes have taken place.
The advisory stressed that the NPA is officially classified as a foreign terrorist organization by both Philippine and U.S. governments, warning that individuals found near such groups face serious consequences, including possible arrest, injury, or death. It also raised concern over recruitment efforts targeting foreigners, including Americans, for both operational and financial support roles.
Specific regions flagged for heightened risk include remote and mountainous parts of Leyte, Mindoro, Negros, and Samar, where recent confrontations have resulted in casualties.
The embassy urged U.S. nationals to distance themselves from any armed or suspicious groups and to leave immediately if encountering individuals not identified as part of official security forces. It also advised those pursuing volunteer or humanitarian work to coordinate only with organizations formally registered with Philippine authorities and to ensure proper documentation and local government coordination for safety and compliance.
