The United States Embassy in Manila issued a security alert for its citizens in the Philippines following the deaths of two Americans in a reported clash in Toboso, Negros Occidental.
In the advisory, the embassy identified rural and mountainous areas in Leyte, Mindoro, Negros, and Samar as “areas of heightened concern,” urging Americans to comply with local laws and avoid high-risk situations.
Two US nationals were among the 19 individuals killed during a military operation conducted by the Philippine Army against alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Salamanca on April 19.
The embassy reminded its citizens that the NPA is designated as a foreign terrorist organization by both US and Philippine authorities, warning that individuals near NPA elements face risks of arrest, injury, or death. It also cautioned that such groups may attempt to recruit foreigners for participation or financial support.
Americans were further advised not to affiliate with insurgent or terrorist organizations and to immediately leave areas where armed individuals not connected to police or military forces are present.
The embassy also warned that some non-governmental organizations may have links to armed groups, urging those planning humanitarian work to coordinate with the Philippines National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency and local government units to ensure safety and proper documentation.
A vigil was recently held in front of the Philippine Consulate General in New York for Lyle Prijoles and Kai Sorem, who participants identified as Filipino Americans killed in the Toboso incident.
The NPA’s Apolinario Gatmaitan Command disputed the military’s account, claiming that only a few of those killed were armed fighters and that some were civilians.
Among those reportedly killed were local farmer Roel Sabillo and Bacolod-based journalist RJ Ledesma, according to the group. The UP Diliman University Student Council also said student leader Alyssa Alano was among the fatalities.
The University of the Philippines Open University confirmed that its Associate of Arts student Maureen Keil Santuyo also died in the operation. Two minors were likewise reported among the fatalities.
Philippine Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala earlier said troops from the 79th Infantry Battalion acted professionally and in accordance with International Humanitarian Law, questioning the presence of individuals identified as journalists, social workers, and activists at the encounter site who were allegedly armed.
