The Philippine Army clarified that the ongoing violence in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan is rido-related conflict between local groups and not a siege, contrary to earlier online reports.
Brig. Gen. Fredrick Sales, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, said the clash involves members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The fighting erupted around 7 a.m. Tuesday in Barangay Poblacion, a day after tensions began.
A joint statement from the Basilan provincial government, military, MILF, and the Council of Elders linked the violence to the October 21 killing of Nadzri Tarahin, an Islamic teacher and village councilor in Tipo-Tipo. Tarahin was shot dead at a bus terminal in Lamitan City, reportedly prompting retaliation from his followers.
“The presence of military personnel in the area is part of our mandate to preserve peace, maintain order, and uphold the rule of law,” Sales said.
He added that coordination with the Philippine National Police, local government units, and community leaders continues to prevent escalation and protect civilians.
Meanwhile, Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala confirmed that troops have been deployed and are maintaining close coordination with local officials to “restore normalcy and address the needs of the affected communities.”
“We assure the public that the PA is on top of the situation,” Dema-ala said.