World · Philippines Bureau
Armed clashes displace 3,000 in Maguindanao del Sur
Violence between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and an unidentified armed group in Sultan sa Barongis has forced thousands of residents to abandon their homes. Seven MILF members were wounded in the fighting, according to provincial police.
LSN Philippines ·
COTABATO CITY — More than 3,000 residents have fled their homes following armed clashes in Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao del Sur, authorities reported Saturday.
The confrontation erupted between members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and an armed group, resulting in seven MILF combatants sustaining injuries during the fighting. Police Major Guiseppe Tamayo, spokesperson for the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, confirmed the casualty figures and the mass displacement.
The scale of the exodus underscores the ongoing security challenges in the southern Philippine province, where armed groups continue to clash despite ongoing peace initiatives. Authorities did not immediately provide details on the specific trigger for the violence or the identity of the opposing armed group.
The displaced residents have fled to nearby areas, seeking safety as security forces respond to the situation. Officials have not yet announced measures to facilitate the return of residents to their homes or provide emergency assistance to those displaced by the violence.