A protracted gun battle unfolded in Picong, Lanao del Sur, late Saturday, resulting in injuries to three soldiers. The clash, which lasted about eight hours, erupted during a security operation along the National Highway in Sitio Badak, Barangay Biosong, beginning around 1 p.m. The firefight not only posed life-threatening challenges but also disrupted traffic, stranding numerous commuters and long-distance travelers attempting to navigate the critical transit route connecting Lanao del Sur to nearby provinces.
Emergency reports from the Picong Municipal Police Station identified the injured soldiers as Pvt. Jude Deligero, who sustained a gunshot wound to his right upper arm; Pvt. Cupid Val Masibog Mosque, who was hit in the right calf; and Pvt. Reymond Padawan, who suffered a gunshot wound to his right shoulder. Following the incident, medical teams promptly evacuated the injured personnel, transporting them to the Dr. Serapio Montaner Memorial Hospital for urgent care.
Military sources revealed that the firefight was initiated as government troops—comprising the Picong Municipal Police, the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the Philippine Army's 64th Infantry Battalion—were executing a joint operation aimed at controlling escalating conflicts between two rival clans, the Labao and the Gaosil families. During the operation, the armed members of the Labao family, coming from Barangay Biosong and Barangay Rarab in Lanao del Norte, reportedly opened fire on the government forces, leading to the extended gunfight.
Traffic along the main highway ground to a halt as authorities reacted to the gunfire, prompting transportation officials to impose restrictions on vehicular movement to mitigate the risk of stray bullets hitting commuters. A significant backlog of trucks, buses, and private vehicles traveling toward Cotabato City, General Santos City, and Davao occurred as a result.
In response to the violence, field commanders dispatched reinforcements to bolster the area’s defenses after sunset, aiming to secure the exposed sectors along the roadside and ensure the safety of civilians in the vicinity. Emergency travel advisories were circulated, recommending motorists to divert traffic away from Picong until the area could be cleared and deemed safe for travel.
As the gunfight subsided, law enforcement collaborated with military units to establish checkpoints along critical entry and exit points in both Picong and neighboring municipalities. This action was intended to prevent any potential escape routes for the assailants. The Picong Municipal Police initiated an investigation aimed at fully understanding the circumstances surrounding the violence, determining any criminal responsibilities, and preparing necessary charges against the individuals involved from the Labao family.
As of late Saturday evening, law enforcement and military presence remained heavy in Sitio Badak, where efforts were focused on maintaining order, conducting further tactical operations, and working toward reopening the National Highway to restore normalcy for civilian traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiated the gun battle in Picong, Lanao del Sur?
The gun battle was initiated during a joint security operation aimed at controlling tensions between the Labao and Gaosil families.
How long did the firefight last?
The firefight lasted approximately eight hours, affecting traffic in the area.
What injuries did the soldiers sustain?
Three soldiers were injured, with wounds to their right upper arm, right calf, and right shoulder.
Reporting by Mc Esplanada for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.