TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Government security forces stopped and verified a large convoy identified as belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 131st Brigade after it passed through a checkpoint in Barangay Libertad, Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte, on Wednesday morning, September 2, 2026.
The convoy, consisting of 23 vehicles and five motorcycles, was intercepted at about 7:30 a.m. by personnel of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st PMFC) of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), together with troops from the 5th Mechanized Battalion of the Philippine Army.
According to the LDN PPO, the security forces conducted the checkpoint and verification as part of measures to maintain peace and order and ensure the safe movement of people and groups within the province.
During the inspection, however, members of the convoy were reportedly unable to present pertinent documents or proof of prior coordination with the concerned authorities regarding their organized movement through the area.
The lack of documentation prompted government security forces to prevent the convoy from proceeding further into Lanao del Norte.
Rather than allowing the large group to continue its movement without the required coordination, police and military personnel facilitated the convoy’s safe and orderly return to its place of origin in Picong, Lanao del Sur, according to the provincial police office.
The LDN PPO said the action was undertaken primarily as a public safety and peace-and-order measure, while emphasizing that it was carried out within the context of existing peace mechanisms.
Police stress coordination amid peace process
Lanao del Norte Provincial Director PCOL Leo De Leon Sua said the incident underscores the importance of coordination among armed groups, government authorities and other stakeholders, particularly when large organized movements are involved.
“Our primary concern is the safety and security of everyone. We recognize and respect the existing peace mechanisms, and we encourage all concerned parties to observe proper coordination before undertaking organized movements, particularly those involving large convoys. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that peace and order are maintained in our communities,” Sua said.
The provincial police chief’s statement placed emphasis on preventing misunderstandings and avoiding situations that could potentially create tension in communities where government forces and groups covered by existing peace arrangements operate.
The police did not report any clash, arrest, or violence arising from the checkpoint operation. Instead, the convoy was escorted or facilitated back toward Picong after the verification process.
The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the movement of large armed or organized groups in areas affected by the long-running peace process in Mindanao, where coordination between government security forces and parties covered by peace agreements remains important in preventing unnecessary confrontations.
Security forces continue coordination
The LDN PPO said it will continue coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), local government units and other peace and security stakeholders to maintain a peaceful and secure environment across Lanao del Norte.
The provincial police office also reiterated its commitment to strengthening coordination among concerned parties and supporting efforts aimed at maintaining peace, stability and public safety in the province.
The police stressed that the checkpoint action was intended to address the convoy’s lack of proof of prior coordination, rather than undermine existing peace mechanisms.
For government security authorities, ensuring that organized movements—especially those involving large convoys—are properly coordinated remains a key measure in preventing misunderstandings and preserving stability in communities across Lanao del Norte.