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This undated image shows the US Embassy in Manila, Philippines.
Philstar.com / File
MANILA, Philippines — The United States embassy in Manila confirmed yesterday the deaths of two Americans in the clash between the military and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Toboso, Negros Occidental on April 19, as it warned US citizens of the military’s recent operations.
The embassy issued a security alert to US citizens regarding operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the NPA.
“US citizens have been present during recent military actions against the NPA. An April 19, 2026, armed clash resulted in the deaths of two Americans. We advise Americans in the Philippines and around the world to abide by local laws and to avoid situations with elevated security risk,” the embassy said.
The security alert identified areas of heightened concern that include rural and mountainous regions of Leyte, Mindoro, Negros and Samar, “all of which have seen recent fatal clashes between NPA and Philippine forces.”
The NPA is designated a foreign terrorist organization by the governments of the US and the Philippines.
“Anyone in proximity of NPA elements is at grave risk of arrest, injury or death. Foreign terrorist organizations actively recruit Americans to participate directly in terrorist activities and/or provide financial support,” it said.
“If you unwittingly become associated with a group you suspect is engaged in terrorism or armed opposition to the Philippine government, the embassy can help. Contact us immediately,” it said.
The embassy also urged its citizens to immediately leave the area if they encounter armed individuals not with the police or military.
It said some nongovernmental organizations have affiliations with the NPA and other anti-government groups.
Americans seeking to engage in humanitarian activities should work with groups registered with the Philippines National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency and obtain the correct visa.
“Volunteer groups should also coordinate with local governments, which can provide reliable security information and local context,” the embassy said.
In Negros Occidental, the Sanggunian Bayan of Toboso defended the Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion from critics, saying it protected residents from terror activities of local insurgents.
