KIDAPAWAN CITY, COTABATO — Tension once again gripped Barangay Malinan on Monday evening, October 14, after gunfire erupted between unidentified armed groups, forcing at least 124 families or 496 individuals to flee their homes.
The renewed violence broke out around 6:00 p.m., affecting residents in Purok Mahogany, Purok Langka, Purok Mangga, Purok Balite, and the barangay center. Videos circulating online showed the Kidapawan City Police, soldiers, and personnel from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CDRRM) assisting in the evacuation of residents to safer areas.
According to City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Psalmer Bernalte, sporadic gunfire was first heard as early as Sunday near the boundary of Barangay Malinan and Barangay Estado in Matalam, indicating a possible spillover of tension between local armed groups.
At least nine families have been temporarily relocated to Barangay Amas, many of whom include small children. The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has already provided initial assistance to the evacuees.
This is not the first time that violence has disrupted peace in Malinan. Several months ago, armed men reportedly entered farmlands, looted household belongings and livestock, and claimed ownership of agricultural lands, even bringing in seedlings loaded in trucks — an act residents described as an attempted land occupation.
Local sources recall that the situation worsened last August 8, when members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) led by Councilor Jonathan Daruca clashed with the same group in Purok Mahogany.
The nearby Barangay Estado in Matalam also experienced a rise in tension following the latest exchange of gunfire, prompting both local and military authorities to raise the security alert level in the area.
Authorities from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continue to monitor the situation to ensure the safety of the affected communities.
“We are doing our best to secure the residents and restore peace in the area,” Bernalte said, assuring that relief and security operations are ongoing.
As of press time, no casualties have been reported. Residents are advised to remain alert and coordinate with barangay officials and authorities for any updates before returning to their homes.