Manila: The government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have activated joint peace mechanisms to address tensions stemming from a localized conflict known as 'rido' in the Special Geographic Area (SGA), as reported by the Government Peace Implementing Panel.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), and Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPSTs) have been actively working with local government units and MILF commanders since September 16. Their objective is to prevent the conflict from escalating and to restore peace in the affected communities. The panel has indicated that tensions have since subsided.
Government Peace Implementing Panel Chair and Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento stated that the joint ceasefire mechanisms are in place to assist local authorities in de-escalating the 'rido.' He reassured the public and the residents of the SGA that the government and MILF are committed to maintaining peace through these mechanisms.
Sarmiento emphasized the continuous efforts of the joint peace mechanisms to ensure safety and reduce tensions. He urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint and allow the peace mechanisms to function effectively.
The CCCH intervened after armed encounters occurred on September 16 in Barangay Olandang and Kadingilan in Nabalawag, which heightened tensions among nearby communities. The committee worked with local authorities, while JPSTs and government security forces implemented safety measures for civilians and assisted internally displaced persons.
A separate incident took place in Barangay Balong, Tugunan on Saturday, related to a law enforcement operation to serve a warrant of arrest. Coordination protocols were crucial in preventing the operation from escalating into a confrontation between government troops and MILF forces, who repositioned to avoid accidental contact.
By 4 p.m. on the same day, government units returned to their headquarters after the Philippine National Police completed crime-scene processing. The CCCH and AHJAG continue to work closely with authorities to prevent miscommunication or accidental encounters and to safeguard civilians.
The first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao occurred on September 14, with isolated incidents of violence reported.
