A violent confrontation between two local clans has left one member dead and forced nearly 100 residents to flee their homes in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur. The intense gun battle, which lasted approximately 40 minutes, began late Thursday evening in Sitio Sabaduan, located in Barangay Kauran. According to the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID), the clash stems from an ongoing feud between the Filmin and Simpal families, known locally as a 'rido.'
The Army's Lt. Col. Ronald Suscano confirmed that the deceased was a member of the Filmin family, whose name has not been disclosed pending formal verification. Importantly, Suscano clarified that he was an active participant in the shootout rather than a civilian casualty. The conflict escalated dramatically around 6:30 p.m., leading to a chaotic scene as armed members of the feuding clans unexpectedly encountered one another.
As gunfire erupted, authorities reported that between 80 and 100 residents—including children and the elderly—abandoned their homes in a desperate attempt to escape the violence. Thankfully, there were no reports of injuries to innocent bystanders or members of the military during the exchange, according to Army officials, who worked swiftly to contain the situation by midnight as the warring factions retreated into remote areas.
Military and police units rapidly established a security perimeter to restore order and prevent further escalation of hostilities. Community leaders and local officials are actively collaborating with the municipal disaster management office to deliver emergency relief to displaced families who found temporary shelter in safer areas, including neighboring communities.
Social workers have begun assessing the needs of evacuees in temporary shelters, focusing on providing essential items such as food, water, and medical supplies. In a bid to prevent any further violence, peace-building units from the 6ID, alongside traditional and community leaders, are working towards negotiating a ceasefire between the conflicting clans. This intervention aims to facilitate a resolution to the long-standing feud.
Additionally, the Police Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM) has increased checkpoint operations around Barangay Kauran as a precautionary measure to deter any potential retaliatory attacks. Peacekeeping forces will remain in the village to ensure the safety of the residents and help facilitate their return once the situation stabilizes and security clearances are obtained.