Attachments
INCIDENT BACKGROUND
On 08 November 2017, an armed confrontation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Barangay Upper Cabengbeng, Sumisip, Basilan resulted in the displacement of a total of 775 individuals (155 families). While the AFP reportedly sustained six deaths and four injuries, no civilian casualties were reported. Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF-BIAF) in the municipality were also reportedly involved in the confrontation.
According to local government sources, the displaced families are scattered, with most having evacuated to the homes of friends and relatives, while some have taken up temporary residence inside a local madrasah and a day care center.
CURRENT SITUATION
While most of the IDPs are staying within Sumisip municipality, local government sources have also confirmed that 160 individuals (32 families) who were displaced from Upper Cabengbeng are currently located, in the neighbouring municipality in Al-Barka, most of whom are living with relatives or friends. Some displaced families have taken up temporary residence in a local madrasah, a day care center and the old barangay hall along the Upper Cabengbeng Highway.
Among the protection issues reported include limited food items being received by IDPs and the lack of livelihood opportunities while displaced. In addition, three IDPs - two children and one elderly person - were reported as suffering from diarrhea and are presently admitted in Isabela General Hospital.
Although government forces have already pulled out from the area and tensions have been defused, the currently displaced families have no plans of returning to their habitual residences, and authorities have stated that the situation is still volatile. The Provincial and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices concerned continue to provide humanitarian assistance through protection monitoring and referral to other concerned agencies.
The municipal local government unit of Sumisip, through a municipal council resolution, requested for the augmentation of the relief intervention.