ReliefWeb

Crisis overview

Since fighting broke out on 23 May in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, displacement has occurred from Marawi City and the neighbouring Marantao municipality. As of 22 June, more than 294,000 people were still displaced, around 16,000 of whom were hosted in evacuation centres (ECs). Ongoing conflict in Marawi City prevents the return of displaced people and has left between 300-500 people trapped in areas controlled by ISaffiliated groups. The government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) asked for international assistance on 29 May, including from non-governmental partners.

Key findings

Anticipated scope and scale

IDPs will likely remain displaced for several more weeks as Islamic State (IS) affiliated fighters strongly resist the Armed forces of Philippines (AFP) in Marawi City. Severe damage to buildings in Marawi city centre will also prevent IDPs from returning.

Prolonged stays with relatives and friends and in ECs will increase their vulnerability and their needs, especially health, WASH, and shelter.

The presence of IS-affiliated groups has been reported around Iligan City, Lanao del Norte and near Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, increasing the risk of more fighting and further displacement.

Key priorities

• Health: In overcrowded ECs, health assistance is urgently required as the risk of outbreaks is rising. An Increase of fever, upper respiratory infection, and hypertension cases has been reported, mostly in ECs.

• WASH: Lack of sanitation and drinking water has been reported in many ECs, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. A high number of diarrhoea cases has already been reported.

• Shelter: Living conditions in ECs are poor, further aggravating WASH and health issues

Humanitarian constraints

Access to Marawi City is impossible due to ongoing fighting. Rains hinder access to areas where IDPs are located.