By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine Army (PA) said Wednesday that tensions in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, reportedly caused by “rido” or clan feuding, have de-escalated, with military and police units helping secure the area.
“Wala na [nagaganap na kaguluhan], but our forces are still securing the area,” PA Spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said in a message to the Philippine News Agency when asked for updates on the incident that affected the community.
He also said the 45th Infantry Battalion, under Joint Task Force Orion, is the PA unit helping secure the locality, along with other security troops, including those from the Philippine National Police (PNP).
In a separate statement, acting PNP chief, PLtGen. 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 (MILF), 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 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. (With a report from Christopher Caliwan/PNA)
