Reports indicate that the confrontation involved the group led by Barangay Captain Tamano Argasi and factions led by Commander Paradise and Commander Macmod.
DAVAO CITY — The Western Mindanao Command confirmed today that seven individuals were killed in a clash that occurred on Friday, October 19 in the waters off Barangay Tagudtungan, Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte.
Reports indicate that the confrontation involved the group led by Barangay Captain Tamano Argasi and factions led by Commander Paradise and Commander Macmod.
The Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 and the 65th Force Reconnaissance Company quickly initiated a Maritime Security Patrol (MarSecPat) in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) PRO BAR.
The Philippine Marines arrived on the scene at approximately 2 PM aboard a Small Unit Riverine Craft (SURC) when they came under fire from armed individuals believed to be part of Commander Paradise’s group. The Marines returned fire, leading to a series of exchanges between the two parties. The armed group reportedly used twelve motorized boats during the confrontation.
According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), seven people have been reported dead, with three bodies recovered. The remaining four are believed to have sunk in the sea. The military also recovered various weapons and spent ammunition from the assailants.
In a statement this morning, PRO BAR Regional Director PBGEN Romeo Macapaz confirmed that four bodies had been recovered, although their identities are still being verified.
One member of the Philippine Marines sustained injuries during the encounter and was promptly transported to Camp Siongco Station Hospital for treatment.
Search operations are ongoing for the missing companions of the deceased.
