Maluso, Basilan – July 7, 2025 — A long-standing rido, or clan feud, that spanned over 13 years between the Sali family of Tabuan Lasa, Basilan, and the Baridji family of Indanan, Sulu, has finally come to an end in a landmark settlement that highlights the power of unity, dialogue, and peace-building among warring communities in Mindanao.
Held at the Rear Support Base of the 20th Special Forces Company in Barangay Port Holland, Zone II, Shipyard Main, Maluso, the peace settlement was facilitated through the joint efforts of multiple local government units (LGUs), security forces, and community leaders.
The reconciliation was a product of tireless coordination among the LGUs of Maluso, Tabuan Lasa, and Al-Barka; the Tabuan Lasa Philippine National Police; and the 20th Special Forces Company under the 6th Special Forces Battalion (6SFBn). Their mission: to turn a page on years of bloodshed and pave the way for healing, stability, and inclusive development in the region.
The solemn event was witnessed by dignitaries and key peace actors, including Lt. Colonel Roldan P. Mira, Commanding Officer of the 6SFBn; Mayor Kaiser Hataman of Maluso; Mayor Jaydeefar Lajid of Al-Barka; former Vice Mayor Midzfar Lajid of Al-Barka; Councilor Farouck Alpad of Tabuan Lasa; Barangay Chairman Muamar Manisan of Bukut Umus, Tabuan Lasa; other barangay leaders from Tabuan Lasa; and PCPT Lanado, Chief of Police of Tabuan Lasa.
For over a decade, the feud between the Sali and Baridji families fueled tension and violence, affecting not just the families themselves but the broader peace and security landscape of Basilan and nearby Sulu. The reconciliation was not merely symbolic — it marked a tangible step toward rebuilding community trust and fostering sustainable peace in a region long beset by inter-family conflicts and instability.
In a statement, Lt. Colonel Mira reaffirmed the commitment of the 6th Special Forces Battalion to upholding peace in the province. “Horizontal conflicts like these hinder progress and development. We remain steadfast in supporting efforts that prioritize peaceful resolution and reconciliation through meaningful partnerships and dialogue,” he said.
The successful settlement also underscores the evolving role of the military not just as protectors of security, but as active peacebuilders working in collaboration with local stakeholders to resolve deep-seated issues at the grassroots level.
For the local leaders of Basilan, the resolution is a significant victory. “This is a clear example of how unity and compassion can overcome even the deepest divisions,” Mayor Hataman shared during the ceremony. “We are hopeful that this peace will ripple through other communities still burdened by conflict.”
The peace forged between the two families is expected to open opportunities for rebuilding relationships, restoring livelihoods, and laying down the foundations for a more resilient and harmonious Basilan.
As the region continues its path toward normalization and development, the story of the Sali and Baridji families stands as a powerful reminder: peace is always possible — and it begins with the courage to reconcile.