IPIL, Philippines – Four people, including two village officials, were killed in an armed clash in Hadji Mohammad Ajul town in Basilan on Sunday, May 12, just a day before the 2025 midterm elections.

The skirmish broke out around 9 a.m. near the primary school in Barangay Langil, an island village designated as a polling center for Monday’s vote.

Police reports said the confrontation began as Barangay Captain Amna Pawaki—wife of incumbent Mayor Talib Pawaki—was supervising the installation of a perimeter fence around the school. Her team noticed several men loitering inside a nearby house.

Two of her male volunteers approached to investigate but were met with gunfire. They were identified as Addahang Abdulla, 45, and Barangay Councilor Hajarani Maha, 63. Both were killed on the spot.

Hearing the gunshots, Mayor Pawaki rushed to the scene with his security aides. A firefight ensued between his group and the armed men, resulting in the deaths of two suspected gunmen: Jul-Asbi Misuari, 44, and Jun Awang, 39—both residents of Langil.

Clash Probed

The motive behind the incident remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet confirmed if the clash was politically motivated. Mayor Pawaki is seeking reelection and is facing challenger Muhammad Hassan in the May 13 polls.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in parts of Mindanao, where election-related violence has historically disrupted voting, particularly in areas with intense political rivalries and private armed groups.

Police and military forces in Basilan have since heightened security measures across the province to ensure safe and orderly elections.

About The Author

Antonio Manaytay

Antonio Manaytay is a journalist, editor, and pastor reporting for Rappler and leading the Daily Sun Chronicle. A 2024 Klima Fellow, he covers climate, governance, and grassroots resilience in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

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