MATALAM, Cotabato – A civilian was killed while two others were injured after an armed encounter erupted between members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and an armed civilian group in Barangay Estado, Matalam, Cotabato on Wednesday, July 29, forcing around 100 families to flee their homes.
According to 2nd Lieutenant Jewel Mae Bureros, Acting Civil Military Operations Officer of the 40th Infantry Battalion (40IB), the firefight broke out at approximately 1:40 p.m. between fighters believed to be from the 108th Base Command of the MILF and armed civilians reportedly harvesting coconuts in the area.
However, Bureros emphasized that authorities have yet to determine which group initiated the exchange of gunfire, as investigations remain ongoing.
The military confirmed that a civilian identified as Elmer Viajante, also known by the alias “Elmer,” was killed after being caught in the violence. Two other civilians sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Initial reports indicated that Viajante, a farmer and resident of Barangay Estado, was on his way home from his farm in Sitio Esmar when he was struck during the crossfire.
Military authorities are also verifying reports of possible casualties on the opposing side, although no official confirmation has been released.
Hundreds Displaced
The violence forced approximately 100 families to evacuate to safer areas as fear spread across the community.
Of the displaced residents:
- 63 families are temporarily sheltered at the Barangay Hall of Estado.
- 37 families were evacuated to the Barangay Hall of San Roque in Kidapawan City, where they continue to receive humanitarian assistance.
The Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC) of Barangay San Roque said the displaced families have been provided with emergency support through the coordinated efforts of several government agencies.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Kidapawan City distributed hot meals and conducted orientation sessions for the evacuees, while the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Matalam provided modular tents and sleeping kits. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continues to secure the evacuation areas and affected communities.
In a statement, the BDRRMC expressed solidarity with the displaced residents and reiterated its commitment to assisting every affected family until it is safe for them to return home.
Security Operations Continue
Following the firefight, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police launched joint clearing operations, security patrols, and monitoring activities to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of residents.
Bureros said the armed encounter subsided at around 6:00 p.m., and no additional firefights have been recorded since then.
Meanwhile, the Matalam Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the 40th Infantry Battalion, continues to investigate the incident to determine the identities of those involved and establish the circumstances that triggered the clash.
Authorities have appealed for calm as security forces maintain a heightened presence in the area while humanitarian agencies continue assisting displaced families.
The latest incident underscores the continuing security challenges in parts of North Cotabato, where isolated armed confrontations continue to threaten civilian safety and disrupt the lives of local communities despite ongoing peace efforts.