The Philippine Army on Wednesday reported that tensions in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan—believed to have stemmed from a ‘rido’-related conflict—have eased as military and police forces continue to secure the area.
“Wala na (The tension is gone) but our forces are still securing the area,” Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said when asked for updates on the incident which affected the above-mentioned community.
He also said that the 45th Infantry Battalion, which is under Joint Task Force Orion, is the Army unit helping secure the locality along with other security troops including those of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In a separate statement, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said they have intensified peacekeeping and investigative operations in Tipo-Tipo following the incident.
He also commended the swift coordination between PNP units, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and local leaders, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, in restoring calm and protecting residents.
“The PNP remains steadfast in pursuing justice for the slain barangay official while ensuring that peace is sustained through continuous dialogue and law enforcement cooperation,” Nartatez said.
The AFP earlier confirmed that the situation in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan stemmed from a local rido-related conflict between community groups.
“The incident is now under control, with the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities and the Provincial Government of Basilan facilitating dialogue and de-escalation,” it said.
The AFP, through its Western Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Orion, said it continues to coordinate closely with the PNP, the Basilan Council of Elders and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front leadership to restore normalcy and protect civilians.
“We urge the public to remain calm and continue supporting the peace process. The AFP remains committed to sustaining peace and stability in Basilan and across Mindanao through cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility,” it added.
Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, meanwhile assured, aid for the affected people of the conflict.
In fact, the agency in partnership with the Provincial Government of Basilan and troops from the 45th Infantry “Gallant” Battalion, has begun distributing relief assistance, including family food packs and other basic necessities, to affected families.
According to reports from the barangay, local economic activity is also beginning to recover. Shops and markets have reopened, and the community is showing signs of renewed vitality.
