JOINT peace and security mechanisms of the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have been deployed to de-escalate tensions following recent localized incidents in the special geographic area (SGA), the Government Peace Implementing Panel announced on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Operating on the ground since Sept. 16, the GPH-MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) and the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), backed by Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPSTs), have worked closely with local government units (LGUs) and local MILF commanders to restore calm and halt fighting between feuding groups.
Government Peace Implementing Panel Chair and Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento assured the public that joint ceasefire frameworks remain robust.
“Our joint peace mechanisms work tirelessly to ensure this, while actively assisting LGUs and local authorities in de-escalating ‘rido’ to reduce tension and keep our communities safe,” Sarmiento said. “We call on all parties on the ground to exercise maximum restraint and to allow our peace mechanisms to do their work.”
‘Rido’ Contained
The intervention follows an armed clash on Sept. 16, 2026, in Barangays Olandang and Kadingilan in Nabalawag, triggered by a localized community-based conflict ( rido ) that heightened regional anxiety.
The CCCH immediately intervened to contain the spread of hostilities, while government security forces and JPSTs established safety perimeters, aided internally displaced persons (IDPs), and secured civilians.
Authorities report that the situation is currently under control, with continuous monitoring from peace mechanisms.
Separate Law Enforcement Operation in Tugunan
Meanwhile, the GPH Panel clarified that a separate incident on September 19, 2026, in Barangay Balong, Municipality of Tugunan, was distinct from the Nabalawag encounter.
Validated through the GPH-MILF AHJAG, the Tugunan event stemmed from a legitimate law enforcement operation to serve a warrant of arrest against lawless elements.
Established GPH-MILF coordination protocols successfully prevented miscommunication or accidental confrontation.
Members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF-MILF) repositioned away from the target zone during the operation.
By 4:00 pm on September 19, operating troops returned to their headquarters following the conclusion of the Philippine National Police crime-scene processing.
The government emphasized its ongoing partnership with the MILF to safeguard community stability and protect the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process against isolated security challenges.
