Philippines: Eight years after Marawi Conflict, unresolved issues of displaced, missing people hamper lasting peace

Since 2017, the ICRC has advocated for people whose lives were upended by the Marawi conflict, including the families of the missing. They continue to suffer from the anguish and uncertainty of not knowing the fate and whereabouts of their loved ones.

The obligation to prevent people from going missing and to account for those who are reported missing is enshrined in the Geneva Conventions and its Additional Protocols, to which the Philippines is a party.

Apart from the emotional burden, the difficulty of obtaining a legal document certifying the absence or presumed death of the missing person has been repeatedly raised as a major concern by their families. If this persistent, systemic issue affecting all missing people is resolved by the government, their families will be able to access social benefits, pensions and property rights.

From 2017 to 2024, the ICRC has helped more than 400 families of missing people by providing mental health and psychosocial support and through livelihood initiatives. The ICRC has been supporting the Philippine National Police-Forensic Group with technical advice, capacity-building and material support toward the identification of remains in the Maqbara and Dalipuga cemeteries.

“We urge the Philippine authorities to provide answers as soon as possible to the families who have been patiently waiting. The authorities need to take the necessary steps to clarify the fate and whereabouts of the missing, as well as identify the remains that have been found. By doing so, the government will help the families move toward healing and trust-building,” Bruwer said.

He added, “Beyond just remembering the missing people of Marawi, let us realize their families’ shared hope for more support and for closure, so that they can move forward with peace in their hearts.”