RAJAH BUAYAN, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR (July 9, 2025) — Troops from the Philippine Army successfully intervened and deescalated a potentially bloody encounter between two rival armed groups in Barangay Panadtaban, Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur on the evening of July 7.
Responding swiftly to a report of heightened tension in the area, personnel from the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion, led by Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Germen T. Legada, were fired upon by armed men while en route to mediate the conflict. This led to a brief firefight followed by a clearing operation conducted by the troops.
Three armed individuals were arrested during the operation. Authorities identified them as Nur Muktar, Harris Lido, and Bagondali Maon—the latter two sustaining injuries. Confiscated from the suspects were an M14 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, a 12-gauge pistol, several magazines, a bandolier, backpacks, and multiple Android mobile phones.
Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, emphasized the military’s resolve to prevent civilians from being caught in the crossfire of long-standing disputes.
“We will not allow our communities to once again suffer due to the persistent conflicts among armed groups. Our coordination with local leaders continues to ensure lasting peace and the resolution of tensions,” he said.
Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), also commended the troops’ swift and effective response.
“The timely action of our soldiers spared our civilians from potential harm. We remain committed to promoting peace and order, working hand in hand with local government units and various sectors of the community. We will not allow fear and violence to take root in our jurisdiction,” said Maj. Gen. Gumiran.
As of this writing, investigation and coordination efforts are ongoing between the military, concerned government agencies, and local leaders to fully resolve the conflict and maintain stability in the area.