Picong, Lanao del Sur – November 16, 2024
A longstanding family feud, or “rido,” between the Alibana H. Jawad Balindong family and the Casanodin “Tacob” Ambang family, both residents of Picong, Lanao del Sur, was formally resolved in a historic settlement held at the 64th Infantry Battalion (IB) Headquarters in Barangay Matalin, Malabang.
The resolution, witnessed by key officials and community leaders, marked a significant step toward fostering peace and harmony in the region. The settlement was overseen by PLTCOL Ansary R. Polog, DPDA, under the direct supervision of PCOL Robert S. Daculan, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDS PPO).
The successful reconciliation was attributed to the collaborative efforts of the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Malabang and Picong, led by Municipal Mayors Alinader “Dagar” M. Balindong and Mesron D. Balindong, respectively. Their initiative was supported by religious and traditional leaders, as well as other stakeholders who played instrumental roles in brokering peace.
Among the notable witnesses to the agreement were:
- LTCOL Abel O. Potutan, Commanding Officer of the 64th Infantry (Knights) Battalion
- PMAJ Ivan John Bakian, Chief of Police, Malabang MPS
- PLT Aldrin L. Acosta, Chief of Police, Picong MPS
- Hon. Raisoli S. Balindong, Vice Mayor of Malabang
- Sultan Abdulhamidullah T. Atar, Mediator and Executive Director of RIDO Inc.
- Other prominent religious and traditional leaders, including Sultan Alimodin Abdulrahim, Sultan of Salagaan Hadji Abdul Razzaq Alo M. Macadati, and Bae a Labi Hadja Norma B. Mascara.
Through open dialogue and negotiations, both families expressed their commitment to ending hostilities and embracing reconciliation. The agreement was formalized with the signing of a peace pact, symbolizing a shared desire for unity and progress.
This milestone underscores the importance of collaboration among LGUs, law enforcement, the military, and traditional and religious leaders in resolving conflicts in culturally sensitive regions like Lanao del Sur. The event also reflects the dedication of stakeholders to fostering long-term peace and stability in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The settlement is expected to serve as a model for conflict resolution, highlighting the power of dialogue, mutual understanding, and community support in addressing deep-seated disputes.
