SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao del Sur — Top officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) convened on April 2, 2026, in a high-level joint conference aimed at strengthening security measures and coordination following recent violent incidents in the province.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., led the meeting held at Camp Datu Akilan Ampatuan, bringing together key leaders from both institutions to assess the peace and order situation in the Bangsamoro region.
Among those present were PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones, PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente, LTGEN Donald M. Gumiran, MGEN Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, and BGEN Edgar L. Catu, along with senior officers from various PNP and AFP units.
Focus on Recent Attacks
During the conference, PCOL Michael John C. Mangahis presented updates on two major security incidents: the ambush of personnel from the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) in Shariff Aguak and a roadside bombing in Raja Buayan.
Authorities conducted a thorough review of both cases, focusing on ensuring proper case build-up, expediting investigations, and pursuing those responsible. Officials also emphasized the urgent need to strengthen intelligence operations and address operational gaps exposed by the incidents.
Enhanced Coordination and Operational Directives
The joint conference underscored the critical role of PNP-AFP collaboration in maintaining peace and order in Maguindanao del Sur and across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Leaders agreed to intensify coordination and interoperability between police and military units, particularly in communication systems and joint operations. Commanders were directed to reassess troop deployments, improve resource allocation, and accelerate recovery efforts for missing firearms linked to recent attacks.
The repair and restoration of damaged patrol assets were also prioritized to ensure continued operational readiness on the ground.
Curfew Imposed in Shariff Aguak
Amid heightened security concerns, local authorities have begun enforcing stricter measures. Under Municipal Ordinance No. 06, Series of 2026, a curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. is now in effect in Shariff Aguak.
Penalties for violations include:
- First offense: warning and documentation
- Second offense: ₱1,000 fine or community service
- Third and subsequent offenses: ₱2,000 fine or up to five days imprisonment, subject to court discretion
The curfew is intended to deter criminal activities and ensure public safety as authorities intensify security operations.
Unified Push for Peace and Stability
Officials highlighted that the joint initiative reflects a proactive and unified stance against lawless elements in the region. The conference also served as a platform to present operational accomplishments and ongoing initiatives, providing the PNP Chief with a comprehensive security assessment to guide strategic decisions.
Both the PNP and AFP reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration with local stakeholders and communities, emphasizing that peace and stability in Mindanao depend on coordinated, responsive, and community-centered security efforts.
The initiative aligns with the PNP’s broader campaign under “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” which promotes fast, honest, and felt public service while ensuring safer communities across the country.