MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato — At least five people were killed, including two students caught in the crossfire, after armed groups clashed in the border areas of Nabalawag, the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and Lomopog in Midsayap, authorities confirmed.
The deadly firefight involved forces linked to Nabalawag Mayor Datu Renz Tukuran and a group led by a commander known as “Kuntay,” according to initial reports from security officials.
During a press conference, 602nd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Ricky Bunayog said two armed fighters from the opposing groups were killed during the confrontation. One was found dead inside the residence of Mayor Tukuran, while another was discovered during military clearing operations in the conflict area.
Police authorities, meanwhile, confirmed that two students were among the fatalities after they were struck by stray bullets during the gunfight. A third civilian death has also been reported, though authorities from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are still working to confirm the victim’s identity.
Weapons Seized, Vehicles Damaged
Authorities also presented firearms recovered from the area during clearing operations.
According to the military, a total of 13 firearms were confiscated, with nine recovered from the residence of Mayor Tukuran and four seized from the group of Commander Kuntay.
The violence also caused damage to local government vehicles operating in the Nabalawag-SGA area. A Patient Transport Vehicle (PTV) and a monitoring vehicle reportedly provided by Member of Parliament Mohammad Kelie Antao were hit during the firefight.
Both vehicles sustained shattered windows and bullet holes, while one vehicle showed signs of being struck with a firearm.
Thousands Displaced
The armed conflict triggered a wave of displacement among residents in nearby communities.
According to Sajed Mamalampa, Information Officer of Nabalawag in the SGA-BARMM, nearly 5,000 families from four barangays have fled their homes and are currently staying in different evacuation centers.
Local government units have begun providing humanitarian assistance to the displaced families.
Meanwhile, a village in the area appeared deserted after residents evacuated amid fears of renewed fighting. Photos circulating on social media showed Purok 7 Damatulan in Nabalawag nearly empty, with homes abandoned and streets silent.
Residents in neighboring communities remain on alert while hoping for a swift resolution to the conflict.
Military Seeks Mediation
Amid the tensions, 6th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara said both groups involved in the clash would undergo specialized conflict mediation and reconciliation efforts facilitated by security forces and local leaders.
Cagara expressed hope that the process would help resolve the deep-seated dispute between the two factions and prevent further violence in the area.
Political Tensions Surface
The incident also comes amid political tensions and accusations circulating on social media.
Maguindanao del Sur Governor Datu Ali Midtimbang denied allegations that he maintains a “private army,” a claim earlier raised by Mayor Tukuran in media interviews.
In an official statement released March 7, Midtimbang’s office strongly rejected the accusation, stressing that he does not recognize or support any private armed groups and that only constitutionally recognized security forces are legitimate.
Despite the controversy, the governor clarified that he has no personal conflict with Mayor Tukuran and dismissed reports circulating online that he plans to file charges against the mayor.
Midtimbang said provincial leaders remain committed to working together to maintain peace and deliver services to residents.
Allegations During Clearing Operation
Another controversy surfaced after claims circulated online that soldiers entered Mayor Tukuran’s house during the military’s clearing operations.
A social media post alleged that the house was left in disarray and that valuables—including gold and cash—were missing after the operation.
The claims have not yet been confirmed by authorities, and no official statement has been issued regarding the allegation. Calls have emerged online urging an investigation to clarify what happened during the operation.
Situation Remains Tense
Security forces continue to monitor the area as displaced residents remain in evacuation centers.
Authorities say mediation efforts and continued military presence aim to prevent further clashes while ensuring the safe return of civilians to their communities.