Non-Moro Indigenous Leaders Urge Restraint After Maguindanao Deaths

COTABATO CITY — Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders issued an appeal for restraint following a series of killings that have claimed the lives of an estimated 110 community members in recent years.

The tribal leaders urged grieving families to refrain from retaliatory actions, instead calling on government authorities to prioritize criminal investigations and bring those responsible to justice. The appeal underscores growing frustration within IP communities over their vulnerability to violence and the need for stronger state protection.

Leaders emphasized the necessity for enhanced safety measures targeting tribal leaders and vulnerable communities across the Maguindanao region. The killings have raised serious concerns about the security situation facing Indigenous groups in the conflict-affected area.

The call comes as authorities face mounting pressure to address the deteriorating safety conditions affecting minority Indigenous communities. Government agencies have been urged to accelerate investigations into the deaths and implement comprehensive protection programs for affected populations.

Local officials have acknowledged the gravity of the security situation, with leaders stressing that lasting peace depends on effective law enforcement and genuine commitment to protecting Indigenous rights and lives.