BANISILAN, NORTH COTABATO — A decades-long conflict between two factions in Barangay Fantar has finally been resolved through the mediation efforts of the Magungaya Group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.
The groups, led by Ante Kamino, also known as Bataga Omar, and Arcega Talib, settled their differences with the assistance of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF-MILF) Inner Guard Base and the Provincial Police Force (PPF-MILF Magungaya Group).
The settlement process was spearheaded by prominent MILF officials, including Provincial Police Force Director Commander Mustapha Salam, Commander Topsider, Koteng Santoring, Commander Hasan Pasigan, Battalion Commander PPF, and Brigade Commander Amirel Yunos Omar. The agreement was formalized through a ceremonial Bay’ah (pledge of allegiance), led by Ustadz Akas Muhammad.
Key Terms of the Agreement
Both parties agreed to withdraw all pending cases they had filed against each other, demonstrating a mutual commitment to peace and reconciliation.
Arcega Talib expressed hope that the successful settlement would pave the way for further harmony in the community. He mentioned plans for a kanduli (thanksgiving feast) to celebrate the peace agreement, pending the availability of MILF-CCCH Chairman and SGA-BARMM Administrator Butch Malang.
A Step Toward Lasting Peace
The resolution of this conflict highlights the critical role of the MILF in fostering peace within its communities. It also underscores the importance of dialogue and mediation in resolving disputes that have lingered for decades.
Residents of Barangay Fantar are optimistic that this development will bring stability and improved relations among community members, contributing to the broader peace-building efforts in the Bangsamoro region.
