Philippines: Anti-Trump protests in Manila Nov. 11 /update 2

Event

Protests broke out on Saturday, November 11 in Manila ahead of the arrival of US President Donald Trump. Hundreds of activists marched towards the US Embassy in Manila protesting perceived US militarism in the Philippines, including fears of an increased number of US military bases in the country. The protests were for the most part peaceful, but violent scuffles occurred as armed police blocked protesters from approaching the US Embassy. Heightened tensions and further protests are possible.

Context

Police forces in parts of the Philippines will be placed on the highest alert status starting Wednesday, November 8, in advance of the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Pampanga province. The summit - which is expected to draw 19 world leaders and thousands of regional delegates to Pampanga and nearby Manila - is taking place from Friday, November 10, to Tuesday, November 14. The elevated security alert will be in effect through November 15, and will involve the deployment of approximately 60,000 soldiers and police officers. While the Philippine National Police (PNP) declared that there is no "present and imminent [security] threat" facing the planned ASEAN summit in Pampanga or in Manila, the police's elevated security alert comes amid several Western governments citing a high threat of terrorism in the country, including in the capital.

Due to heightened security measures and increased congestion in Pampanga province and Manila during the event, significant transportation disruptions are expected before and during the summit. Road closures are planned along routes to be traveled by delegates between Clark Freeport Zone (Pampanga province) and Manila, and flight disruptions are expected at Clark International Airport (CRK) in advance of the high-level talks. The ASEAN 2017 National Organizing Council declared non-working days in Metro Manila, Pampanga, and Bulacan from Monday, November 13, through Wednesday, November 15. Academic classes will also be canceled in Pampanga and Bulacan over this period, and classes will be canceled in Metro Manila from Monday, November 13, to Friday, November 17.

This year's ASEAN summit comes as the Philippines and its President Rodrigo Duterte face increased international scrutiny for alleged human rights violations amid an ongoing crackdown on drugs in the country, while continuing to battle various Islamist groups active in the south.

Advice

Individuals in Manila and areas affected by the upcoming ASEAN summit are advised to monitor the situation and avoid any protests due to the associated risk of violence. Individuals are also advised to anticipate transportation disruptions and allow for additional time to travel. Remain vigilant, particularly in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (transportation hubs, government building, crowded public areas, etc.), and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.