MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that fighting in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, which was rooted in a local clan feud, has been brought under control.
In a statement on Tuesday, AFP public affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the conflict stemmed from a rido, or feud, between different groups in the area. “The incident is now under control, with the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Provincial Government of Basilan facilitating dialogue and de-escalation,” Trinidad said.
He added that the Western Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Orion are closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police, the Basilan Council of Elders and leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of civilians.
The AFP issued the clarification following initial reports from the Tipo-Tipo municipal government that described the town as “under siege” by armed elements allegedly backed by the MILF. In a Facebook post Tuesday morning, the municipality's disaster office said the firefight began around 7 a.m. and that most residents had evacuated from Tipo-Tipo Proper.
By midday, military and provincial authorities confirmed that the clashes were unrelated to the MILF and had instead erupted between rival local groups. Troops have since been deployed to secure the town and assist in humanitarian efforts for displaced families.
A separate statement by the AFP's Western Mindanao Command confirmed that the armed group was unable to advance to "key facilities," including the municipal hall.
"Government troops continue to exercise tactical restraint to avoid the further escalation of hostilities while ensuring the safety of the civilian populace," the Western Mindanao Command said in its statement.
The AFP called on the public to remain calm and continue supporting the peace process in Basilan. "The AFP remains committed to sustaining peace and stability in Basilan and across Mindanao through cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility," the AFP said.
The Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities — a joint mechanism of the government and the MILF — has been activated to mediate and de-escalate tensions. The Basilan Council of Elders is also facilitating talks between the feuding parties to prevent further retaliation.