The government on Tuesday urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading speculation following clashes reportedly sparked by a clan feud in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
“We urge everyone to remain calm, avoid spreading speculation, and allow the authorities and our peace partners to work towards a peaceful and just resolution,” Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. said.
In separate statements, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) said that the fighting stemmed from a ‘rido’ or local clan dispute and that the situation is now under control.
AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said that the military, through the Western Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Orion, continues to coordinate closely with the Philippine National Police, the Basilan Council of Elders, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leadership to restore normalcy and protect civilians.
“The incident is now under control,” he said. “The AFP remains committed to sustaining peace and stability in Basilan and across Mindanao through cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility.” He added.
Galvez, meanwhile, extended condolences to the family of Ustadz Nadzmi “Bahang” Tarahin, whose killing reportedly triggered the confrontation.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the heinous act of violence that led to his untimely death in the island province of Basilan,” Galvez said.
