MNLF, LGUs mediate clan war in Maguindanao del Norte

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), local government units (LGUs), and security forces are mediating a week-long clan war in Barangay Bagoinged, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

The conflict, which has displaced over 400 Moro families, involves a group led by barangay chairman Moner Sepi Kamsa and the clan of Muslimin Wari Angkanan, who was killed in an ambush last month.

Barangay Bagoinged is a significant MNLF enclave and is covered by a 1996 peace agreement brokered by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Relatives of Muslimin Wari Angkanan accuse Moner Sepi Kamsa's group of being responsible for the fatal ambush in June that also wounded two of Angkanan's companions.

Reports indicate that the clashes have resulted in fatalities on both sides, though leaders are allegedly concealing casualties from authorities and the media.

Bangsamoro Labor and Employment Minister Muslimin G. Sema and Datu Odin Sinsuat's mayor, Abdulmain P. Abas, have sent emissaries to de-escalate the situation.