Gunfights disrupt Ramadan in Cotabato, displacing villagers

Gunfights between two rival factions of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front disrupted the first day of Ramadan in Barangay Macabual, Tugunan, Cotabato on Sunday, March 2.

Clashes erupted late Saturday when one faction opened fire on residents emerging from a mosque after nighttime prayers, killing Peli M. Abdulkarim and Nhords L. Samama and injuring Jaime S. Abdulkarim.

The ensuing hostilities forced hundreds of villagers to flee their homes for fear of being caught in the crossfire, disrupting their fasting rituals during Ramadan.

Local officials reported that the conflict stems from rival factions supporting different candidates during the 2024 barangay elections.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region chief minister Ahod Ebrahim has sent emissaries to mediate and resolve the conflict between the feuding groups.