MATALAM, North Cotabato – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s (MILF) 108th Base Command has raised concern over what it described as a breach of the coordination protocol between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the MILF after troops reportedly entered an MILF-identified area in Barangay Kidama on Sunday morning without prior coordination.
According to local reports, soldiers from the 40th Infantry Battalion, based in Marbel, Matalam, allegedly entered the territory under the MILF’s 4th Brigade jurisdiction without notifying the MILF leadership, as required by existing peace mechanisms.
Community witnesses said a heated exchange occurred between Barangay Kidama official Kagawad Grengo Ambalatan and an AFP officer leading the troops after local authorities noticed the soldiers’ presence. The AFP officer allegedly stated that “coordination was no longer necessary,” a claim that barangay officials reportedly disagreed with, citing the clear stipulations of the ceasefire and coordination protocols.
Under the terms of the Government of the Philippines (GPH)–MILF Ceasefire Agreement, the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) require government forces to coordinate any movement within recognized MILF areas to prevent misunderstandings and maintain peace and order.
Community members and local leaders have called on the MILF 108th Base Command, Mayor’s Office of Matalam, and Bangsamoro Representative Hon. Roxas Balacanan to address the situation promptly to prevent further tension. They also urged CCCH and AHJAG to investigate the incident and remind military units to strictly observe coordination procedures to sustain mutual trust and peace in the area.
As of press time, the 40th Infantry Battalion has not yet issued an official statement or response to the allegation.
Despite the tension, local leaders expressed hope that both sides will uphold the spirit of peace, unity, and mutual respect to protect civilians and preserve stability in the community.