30 September 2024, Pikit, Cotabato – A tragic shooting incident has once again occurred in the town of Pikit, which is now part of the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The latest victim was identified as Hod Mamento Dianalan, a 24-year-old fish vendor from Barangay Kabasalan, Pikit. Dianalan was fatally shot while selling fish in Barangay Bulol, Ligawasan, on Sunday.
Local authorities have confirmed that Dianalan was ambushed by unidentified gunmen, making him the latest victim in a string of violent incidents that have plagued the municipality. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and an investigation is ongoing to identify the perpetrators. The shooting has heightened concerns over the recurring violence in the area, as tensions have continued to simmer between various factions in Pikit and nearby towns.
Recurring Violence in Pikit:
The municipality of Pikit has experienced a surge in violence over the past few years, with numerous shooting incidents reported, primarily involving civilians. The violence is often attributed to rido, or clan feuds, political rivalries, and the presence of armed groups in the region. This latest attack has raised fears among residents, who have long called for more robust security measures to protect their communities.
Pikit has been the scene of several high-profile shootings in the past. In February 2023, a series of fatal shootings left at least eight people dead, including a school teacher and a teenager. These incidents occurred in broad daylight, and most of the victims were civilians. In December 2022, a police officer was killed in another shooting incident, sparking widespread calls for increased police presence and stricter law enforcement in the town.
Efforts to Address the Violence:
Authorities in BARMM and local officials have been working to address the security issues in Pikit. Joint efforts between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been implemented, including the establishment of checkpoints and the deployment of additional forces to maintain peace and order. However, the recurring nature of the violence has made it difficult to completely eradicate the problem.
The integration of Pikit into the Special Geographic Area of BARMM following the signing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law has added a layer of complexity to the situation, with some groups expressing dissatisfaction with the division of territory and political control. This has further fueled tensions in the area, with local rivalries sometimes escalating into violent confrontations.
Community Impact:
The ongoing violence has had a devastating impact on the residents of Pikit. Many civilians have been caught in the crossfire, and families have been displaced as they flee their homes in search of safety. Economic activity in the area has also been disrupted, as local businesses face difficulties operating in an environment of uncertainty and fear.
Dianalan’s killing has sent shockwaves through the community, as he was known for being a hardworking fish vendor who supported his family through his livelihood. His tragic death underscores the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect innocent civilians from the escalating violence.
Local officials have condemned the latest attack and vowed to pursue justice for Dianalan and other victims of violence in the municipality. Investigators are currently gathering evidence and pursuing leads to identify those responsible for the shooting.
Call for Peace:
As the community of Pikit grapples with the ongoing violence, local leaders and peace advocates continue to call for unity and the peaceful resolution of disputes. They have urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and refrain from taking matters into their own hands, as escalating retaliatory violence could further destabilize the area.
The latest shooting in Barangay Bulol serves as a stark reminder of the need for lasting peace and security in Pikit and its neighboring municipalities. Authorities are hopeful that with continued efforts and the cooperation of local communities, they can bring an end to the cycle of violence that has long plagued the region.
