Seven individuals, reportedly members of a faction of the Sema MNLF and the MILF, were killed in a clash related to a land dispute along the boundary of Kidapawan City and Matalam, Cotabato Province.

RH Jun Dimacutac reports that as of this morning, 20 to 40 families have evacuated parts of Barangay Estado in Matalam. The area is currently being secured, with two tanks deployed alongside troops from the 602nd Infantry Brigade, under the command of Brigadier General Ricky Bonayog.

Meanwhile, in Kidapawan City, the 1102nd Troops are also on standby as a preventive measure.

Authorities are still investigating which specific group was involved in the confrontation between the MNLF and MILF factions. Reports indicate that the firefight began yesterday over a land dispute between the two sides.

As of press time, the seven individuals who were killed in the Matalam-Kidapawan clash have already been laid to rest.

Relatives of the deceased are calling for justice, while efforts to mediate the conflict are ongoing. Representatives from the CCCH, MILF, AHJAG, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are actively intervening to stabilize the area.

Further details, including the aftermath and official statements, are awaited from the 602nd Infantry Brigade stationed in Carmen, Cotabato Province.