Frequently asked questions: ICRC's work in the Philippines

The ICRC respects the government’s “insurgency-free” declarations and we are not in a position to comment on such matters.  

In parts of the country, the effects of armed conflict persist, and pockets of armed clashes still occur. We remain present in areas where we see that there are humanitarian consequences still being felt by communities affected by past clashes or by recent sporadic fighting.  

We consider the government’s declarations in our independent assessments, but we also look at many factors: incidents referred directly to the ICRC or reported by local media or on social media, perspectives of authorities, weapon bearers, and community leaders, and the results of our own visits to the communities.

Moreover, even if there is no more armed conflict in an area, international humanitarian law (IHL) obligations continue. There are possible humanitarian consequences that can be felt for years, if not decades, even after clashes have stopped. The ICRC works with authorities and its primary humanitarian partner, the Philippine Red Cross, to address these needs. We focus not just on addressing the immediate effects and basic needs, but also on supporting affected communities in recovering from long-term issues such as loss of livelihood due to chronic displacement and determining the fate and whereabouts of missing loved ones.

Part of what we do is also to promote wider awareness and respect for IHL to help create an environment where people respect and understand the need to limit the humanitarian consequences of armed conflict and reduce human suffering.