Clan Gunfight in Picong, Lanao del Sur — 3 Soldiers Wounded, National Highway Blocked for 6 Hours

Clan Gunfight in Picong, Lanao del Sur — 3 Soldiers Wounded, National Highway Blocked for 6 Hours

📌 On Saturday, November 7, two clans locked in a long-running land dispute exchanged gunfire (known locally as "rido") in Picong, Lanao del Sur, Mindanao, wounding 3 Army soldiers who were deployed to the scene. Military and police closed part of the national highway for about 6 hours, stranding hundreds of vehicle passengers.

■ What Happened
· According to Philstar, the two clans had been feuding over land in Barangay Biosong (spelled Biasong by the Daily Tribune), and the gunfight began when one side attacked the other clan's house.
· Soldiers approaching the scene also came under fire, and 3 soldiers from the Army's 64th Infantry Battalion were wounded. When their comrades returned fire, the attackers fled.
· More than 500 residents fled the village to escape the gunfire (Philstar). The Daily Tribune reported that the shooting died down at around 8 p.m.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· Military and police controlled part of the Lanao del Sur–Zamboanga del Sur national highway for about 6 hours (Philstar). The Inquirer described the road as the national highway connecting Pagadian and Cotabato.
· The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region police office ordered the two groups to be separated from each other.
· According to the Inquirer, authorities plan to file attempted murder charges against both sides, and the Army's 101st Infantry Brigade said it will hold those responsible legally accountable.

■ Notice for Residents and Travelers
· If you plan to travel along this stretch of the national highway, check traffic conditions before you leave.
· If you encounter gunfire or a road closure, follow the instructions of the military and police and do not try to force your way through.

■ Sources
Philstar (11/8), Daily Tribune (11/8), Inquirer (11/8)

■ Photos
· 1. Military and police blocking vehicle traffic on the national highway — Inquirer
· 2. Police vehicles and military and police personnel on the road at night — Philstar
· 3. Map showing the location of Lanao del Sur province — Inquirer
· 4. File photo · Graphic introducing the commander of the Army's 101st Infantry Brigade — Daily Tribune