The entire territorial jurisdiction of Lapu-Lapu City has been declared a no-fly zone as the city hosts the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and the 13th ADMM-Plus from Oct. 26 to 30, 2026.
In a public advisory, the city government said the restriction is part of security protocols for the international meetings and will be enforced under City Ordinance No. 16-033-A-2022.
The ordinance regulates the use of laser lights and pointers, laser displays and searchlights, as well as kite-flying, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, balloons and other remotely controlled flying objects.
Under Section 4, Paragraph 7, the city government may designate no-fly zones during specific events to protect public safety and security.
The advisory said the restriction covers the entire city for the duration of the security measures surrounding the meetings.
Kite-flying is also prohibited throughout Lapu-Lapu City under Section 12 of the ordinance, regardless of the activity’s purpose. Parents and legal guardians are responsible for preventing minors from flying kites, with violations punishable by a P3,000 fine imposed on the parent or guardian under Section 13.
The city government also warned that the usual exemptions for recreational drones weighing less than seven kilograms do not apply in areas designated as prohibited or restricted airspace.
According to the advisory, the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office is equipped with technology to neutralize unauthorized flying objects. Drones, kites and balloons that violate the restrictions may be neutralized and confiscated.
Unauthorized operation of flying objects in prohibited or restricted airspace carries a P5,000 fine and confiscation of the equipment, the advisory said.
The city government urged residents and visitors to observe the restrictions as Lapu-Lapu City prepares to receive foreign defense officials and other delegates for the regional meetings.
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