Classes and government work and economic work have been suspended in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, due to tension caused by the reported presence of an armed group in the area.

In a Facebook post, the local government said the town has been under siege by lawless elements allegedly backed by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The local government advised residents to remain calm and vigilant.

The provincial government has held a meeting with law enforcement agencies and local leaders to discuss the incident.

In a statement morning on Tuesday, Mayor Ingatun Istarul said authorities and the armed group are in a standoff.

Negotiations continue, as of this writing.

“Bilang inyong Punong Bayan, tayo ay nakikipag-ugnayan ngayon sa mga kinauukulang ahensya ng pamahalaan upang matiyak ang kapayapaan at kaligtasan ng ating mga mamamayan dito sa Tipo-Tipo,” Istarul said.

“Tiwala po tayo na sa pamamagitan ng maayos na pag-uusap, makakamit natin ang mapayapang solusyon sa sitwasyong ito,” he added.

The Army’s 101st Infantry Brigade (101IB) has said that the clash that has caused tension in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan stemmed from “rido” or clan feud between local parties.

“The 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade clarifies that the ongoing incident in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, is a rido-related violence between local parties,“ the military said in a statement on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

101IB said the provincial government, Basilan Council of Elders, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and law enforcement agencies, are managing the situation to de-escalate tension and restore peace in the town.

Military troops have been deployed in the area to maintain peace and order.

“Our forces are closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police, local government units, and community leaders to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of civilians,” the military added.