MATALAM, Cotabato — Government security forces, local officials, and peace stakeholders have successfully brokered a peace agreement between opposing parties involved in the recent armed confrontation in Barangay Estado, Matalam, Cotabato, culminating in the ceremonial surrender of six firearms in a significant step toward restoring peace and stability in the conflict-affected community.
The peace agreement was formally signed on August 1, 2026, just three days after the deadly armed clash that claimed the life of a civilian, injured two others, and displaced around 100 families.
The activity was led by PCOL Ramel B. Hojilla, Provincial Director of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office (CPPO), in close coordination with BGEN Ricky P. Bunayog, Commander of the 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Matalam Mayor Oscar G. Valdevieso.
Also present were representatives from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front–Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (MILF-AHJAG) led by Atty. Rasol Y. Mitmug Jr., Bangsamoro Council of Elders Chairman Esmael “Toto” Mangelen, AHJAG representatives Ustadz Alimodin Omar and Demas Tumagangtang, along with other government officials, military officers, police personnel, and community leaders.
Coordinated Efforts to Restore Peace
Prior to the ceremonial signing, key stakeholders convened in a coordination meeting to assess the prevailing peace and order situation in Barangay Estado following the July 29 armed encounter.
The meeting focused on strengthening inter-agency collaboration in evaluating security conditions, implementing appropriate interventions, ensuring the protection of affected civilians, and pursuing a peaceful and lasting resolution through sustained coordination among government agencies, security forces, and peace mechanisms.
Officials emphasized that continuous dialogue and cooperation remain vital in preventing the recurrence of violence and restoring normalcy in the community.
Six Firearms Voluntarily Surrendered
As a concrete manifestation of their commitment to peace, the opposing parties voluntarily turned over six firearms believed to have been used during the confrontation, along with five rounds of caliber .30 live ammunition.
Authorities said the surrendered firearms and ammunition were properly inventoried before being placed under the custody of the Matalam Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and disposition in accordance with existing laws and procedures.
Following the turnover, representatives of both parties formally signed the peace agreement before government officials, military and police officers, and community elders.
Through the agreement, both sides pledged to renounce violence, resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means, and actively support peacebuilding initiatives in Barangay Estado.
Officials described the agreement as a significant confidence-building measure aimed at preventing further bloodshed while reinforcing community-based conflict resolution efforts.
Resolution Follows Deadly Armed Encounter
The peace initiative comes in the aftermath of the July 29 armed confrontation between fighters believed to be affiliated with the 108th Base Command of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and an armed civilian group in Barangay Estado.
According to the 40th Infantry Battalion, the firefight erupted at around 1:40 p.m. while armed civilians were reportedly harvesting coconuts in the area.
Military authorities earlier clarified that investigations remain ongoing and that they have yet to determine which group initiated the exchange of gunfire.
The violence resulted in the death of Elmer Viajante, a farmer from Barangay Estado who was reportedly on his way home from Sitio Esmar when he was caught in the crossfire. Two other civilians sustained gunshot wounds and were hospitalized.
Authorities are likewise continuing to verify reports of possible casualties among the armed groups involved.
Hundreds of Residents Displaced
The firefight forced approximately 100 families to flee their homes for safety.
Of the displaced families, 63 sought temporary shelter at the Barangay Hall of Estado, while 37 others evacuated to Barangay San Roque in Kidapawan City, where they received humanitarian assistance from local government units and partner agencies.
Emergency support included hot meals distributed by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Kidapawan City, modular tents and sleeping kits provided by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Matalam, and continuous security operations conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect evacuation centers and affected communities.
Peacebuilding Continues
Authorities expressed optimism that the peace agreement would pave the way for the safe return of displaced residents and the restoration of normal community life.
Police, military, local government units, and peace stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining dialogue, strengthening coordination with the MILF peace mechanisms, and ensuring that conflicts are resolved through peaceful and lawful means rather than armed confrontation.
Security forces continue to maintain a presence in Barangay Estado while monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement and supporting ongoing efforts to preserve peace and order in the area.
Officials also called on residents to cooperate with authorities and community leaders in maintaining stability, expressing hope that the agreement would serve as a lasting foundation for reconciliation and prevent future violence in the municipality.