PUALAS, LANAO DEL SUR — A significant step toward lasting peace and unity was achieved on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as long-standing clan conflict (rido) between powerful families in Lanao del Sur was officially resolved through a traditional reconciliation ceremony in Barangay Tanaon, Dapao, Pualas.
Spearheaded by Mayor Al Ihsan Maruhom Ibrahim of Pualas, the event showcased his firm leadership and vision for grassroots peacebuilding. “Ang tunay na kapayapaan ay nagsisimula sa ating mga komunidad. Kaya’t mahalagang panatilihin ang diyalogo, respeto, at pag-unawa sa bawat isa,” he emphasized, urging communities to preserve dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding as foundations of genuine peace.
The settlement, grounded in the traditional redo system, marked the reconciliation of the Pamaloy family and Commander Macanaic, two influential clans whose conflict had long disrupted local harmony. The ceremony was not only a moment of healing but also a powerful assertion of Maranao values—particularly kapamagawida sa kalilintad, or collective responsibility in achieving peace.
The gathering drew a strong presence of dignitaries and traditional leaders, including:
- Hon. Pangalian Balindong, Parliament Speaker of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA)
- Hon. Yasser Alonto Balindong, 2nd District Congressman of Lanao del Sur
- Hon. Mayor Alinader Dagar Balindong of Malabang
- Hon. Mayor Amin Dimaporo Balindong of Malabang
- Hon. Mayor Mirson Dimaporo Balindong of Picong
- Hon. Vice Mayor Yacub Dimaporo Balindong of Picong
- Vice Mayor Dialalodin Lanto Maruhom of Pualas
- Former Vice Mayor Tony Tanog
- Former Congressman Pangalian Balindong
- Sultan Amatonding sa Pualas
Also present were peace and security personnel, including Col. Lalas of the Philippine Army and PCPT Juanito M. Gomez of the Philippine National Police (PNP), whose attendance underscored government support for local peace initiatives.
The activity was attended by various datus, incumbent and former officials, and community leaders from the municipalities of Picong, Malabang, and Pualas, whose presence symbolized solidarity and regional support for conflict resolution.
The peaceful resolution of this rido is seen as a breakthrough in local governance, where culturally-rooted mechanisms were harmonized with inclusive leadership. Mayor Ibrahim’s administration was lauded for its human-centered, unifying approach, proving that peace is achievable even amidst deeply rooted conflicts.
The Pualas Redo Settlement now stands as a beacon of hope and a model for other communities across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)—reminding all that “Peace for all means progress for everyone.”