KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines — Tension continues to grip Barangay Malinan, Kidapawan City, as armed men occupying portions of a disputed agricultural land refuse to withdraw despite ongoing negotiations between the local government, police, and military forces.
According to Police Lt. Col. Jose Marie Simangan, Chief of Police of Kidapawan City, a series of negotiations have already been initiated involving the City Government, the police, and troops from the 72nd and 40th Infantry Battalions. These efforts aim to peacefully resolve the standoff involving more than a hundred armed individuals claiming over 150 hectares of farmland in Malinan.
Simangan confirmed that during the first round of talks, a certain Commander Abdullah Imbong, said to be representing the armed group, did not personally appear and instead sent a representative from Cotabato City. The group insisted they would not vacate the area unless a proper dialogue takes place.
Authorities have clarified that the armed men are not affiliated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) or the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). The case has now been elevated to the provincial government for further intervention.
The land conflict reportedly stems from overlapping claims involving a well-known family asserting ownership over approximately 150 hectares of land allegedly passed down from their ancestors since the 1950s. This property, which includes parts of Barangay Malinan, is said to have been titled under new owners through legal means, according to barangay officials.
During a meeting last September 13 between the local government, barangay officials, and a representative of the claimant family—identified only as “Maki” from Cotabato City—the representative failed to present proof of land ownership.
However, the military reported hearing gunfire in the area last October 14, which forced 161 families to flee their homes in fear of further violence.
In a statement, the Imbong family denied any involvement in the current conflict, saying they have no connection to the armed group. Esmael Imbong clarified that the armed men have long been residents of the area but had fled years ago following an NPA-led massacre. They reportedly returned to reclaim land they claim was unjustly taken from them.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Vice President extended aid to the displaced residents of Barangay Malinan on October 17, distributing food packs and hygiene kits in coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office and the Department of Health–Region 12.
Local officials reiterated their call for calm, emphasizing that violence has no place in Kidapawan City and expressing hope that peaceful dialogue will soon bring an end to the dispute.