KADAYANGAN, Special Geographic Area, BARMM — Government forces recovered several high-powered firearms and provided humanitarian assistance to displaced residents following a violent armed confrontation between rival groups in Barangay Malingao, Kadayangan, Special Geographic Area of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SGA-BARMM).
A Joint Law Enforcement Support Operation (LESO) was launched on June 5, 2026, involving personnel from the 33rd Infantry Battalion, 40th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Battalion, 61st Division Reconnaissance Company, 3rd Cavalry Company, and the Kadayangan Municipal Police Station.
Authorities said the operation was carried out in response to an escalating conflict between two armed groups that had been involved in a series of violent incidents in the area.
Initial reports revealed that the latest confrontation stemmed from a shooting incident on June 4 involving the same groups. The incident reportedly triggered retaliatory actions that eventually escalated into an exchange of gunfire, raising concerns over the safety of residents and the possibility of further violence.
The operation was led by Lieutenant Colonel Germen T. Legada under the supervision of Brigadier General Ricky P. Bunayog, with the primary objectives of preventing further hostilities, restoring peace and order, and protecting civilians affected by the conflict.
During the conduct of the operation, security forces recovered several high-powered firearms believed to have been used in the armed encounters. Authorities are currently conducting investigations to determine ownership of the weapons and identify individuals involved in the violence.
The armed clashes also forced dozens of families to flee their homes as tensions mounted in the community.
According to military reports, around 40 families sought temporary shelter at the Barangay Salunayan Covered Court in Midsayap, Cotabato on the evening of June 4. Another 50 families evacuated to the Barangay Palomoguen Covered Court, also in Midsayap, to escape the threat posed by the armed conflict.
In response to the displacement, the 33rd Infantry Battalion, in coordination with the local government unit and partner agencies, immediately extended humanitarian assistance to affected families. Relief efforts focused on addressing the urgent needs of evacuees, including food, temporary shelter, and other essential support services.
Military officials emphasized that the safety and welfare of civilians remain a top priority as government forces continue to monitor the situation and maintain security in the area.
Authorities are likewise coordinating closely with local government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders to prevent the conflict from escalating and to facilitate peaceful dialogue among concerned parties.
Security forces urged all groups involved to exercise maximum restraint and cooperate with government initiatives aimed at peacefully resolving disputes and preserving stability in the community.
The military assured residents that operations will continue to ensure public safety, enforce the rule of law, and support efforts toward lasting peace in the conflict-affected area.