Barangay Tabungao, Rajah Buayan – Rising political tension in Maguindanao del Sur has forced an undetermined number of residents in Barangay Tabungao, Rajah Buayan, to flee their homes. The conflict reportedly stems from a dispute between supporters of two local leaders vying for the position of Vice Mayor in the upcoming 2025 elections.
This report comes from Magungaya Mindanao, Incorporated, with protection monitors revealing that the altercation was allegedly triggered by pressure from one faction demanding the withdrawal of the opposing candidate’s Vice Mayoral bid. This escalation has left civilians in the crossfire, with displaced families urgently calling on authorities and stakeholders to intervene and restore peace.
In a plea to end the hostilities, the displaced residents urged conflicting parties to prioritize dialogue and negotiation over violence. “We appeal to the parties involved to resolve their differences through peaceful means, not through the barrel of guns,” a statement from the protection monitors read.
Vulnerable Community
Barangay Tabungao, home to over 3,000 residents according to the 2020 Census, is one of 11 barangays in Rajah Buayan. The community has a history of vulnerability to armed conflict, exacerbated by the presence of various state and non-state armed groups. This longstanding instability has entrenched extreme poverty among local residents.
The forced displacement not only disrupts lives but also hinders the community’s fragile livelihood activities. Displaced individuals are calling for immediate de-escalation measures to enable their safe return and the resumption of normalcy in their daily lives.
Calls for Action
Stakeholders and authorities are being urged to mediate and facilitate dialogue to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The internally displaced persons (IDPs) emphasize the urgent need for humanitarian support as they endure uncertainty away from their homes.
As tensions remain high, updates on de-escalation efforts and the situation on the ground are expected to follow. The incident underscores the importance of fostering political cooperation and preventing violence in communities already burdened by historical conflict.
