BASILAN – In Barangay Matarling, Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan, a clash between the military and an armed group has resulted in the displacement of over 300 individuals, while a rubber tapper was injured.
Police Major Alphad Osalli, the chief of the Ungkaya Pukan Municipal Police Station, confirmed the incident.
The armed attack targeted an Army’s Scout Rangers detachment in Ungkaya Pukan, but no casualties were reported from the clash.
According to reports, the armed men engaged armed forces in an hour-long exchange of gunfire before they scattered to escape authorities.
To address the immediate needs of those affected, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) Office, in collaboration with Municipal Administrator Madznur Maturan, coordinated efforts to provide temporary shelter for internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Barangay Matarling, Boheh Suyak, and Brgy Lower Ulitan.
The IDPs were temporarily housed in Ma’ahad Darul Ulum, while arrangements were made for them to stay with their relatives in neighboring towns.
Among those affected by the clash was a rubber tapper identified as Aragon Sajid Abon, aged 38, who sustained injuries. He was promptly taken to the Ungkaya Pukan Rural Health Unit for medical treatment.
In response to the incident, a joint briefing involving the Philippine National Police (PNP), military, and local government unit (LGU) was conducted. The aim was to prevent further escalation of hostilities and prioritize peace in the island of Basilan.
The clash serves as a reminder of the fragile security situation in the area and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in maintaining peace and stability. Efforts are being made to restore normalcy and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individuals.
