Radjah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur — July 2, 2025
A longstanding rift between two armed groups in Maguindanao del Sur officially ended after rival commanders signed a peace agreement aimed at halting violence that has endangered civilians and disrupted communities.
The peace pact was formalized between Bn. Commander Teng Mamo of the National Guard Front and Mutawali Simpal, Operations Commander of the 105th Base Command of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (MILF-BIAF), both residents of Barangay Kulambog, Sultan Sa Barongis. The signing took place at the 33rd Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Zapakan, Radjah Buayan.
The agreement comes after years of tension that have resulted in threats to civilian lives, damage to properties, disrupted livelihoods, and forced evacuations. The deal seeks to end hostilities and prevent further bloodshed between the two camps.
Key Terms of the Agreement:
- Peaceful Dialogue – All disputes between the parties must be resolved through calm discussion and mutual understanding.
- Ban on Violence – The use of force or firearms in resolving conflicts is strictly prohibited.
- Law Enforcement Measures – If either group violates the peace, appropriate action—including military response—may be taken by authorities.
- Surrender of Firearms – Should conflict recur, both parties agree to surrender no less than 10 high-powered firearms.
- Movement Coordination – Both sides must coordinate with each other before entering specific areas and are prohibited from carrying weapons during such visits.
- Affidavit of Desistance – A formal withdrawal of charges against Mutawali Simpal and his group will be filed through the Governor’s Office in coordination with the LGU of Sultan Sa Barongis.
- Persona Non Grata – Any group or individual who violates the agreement will be declared unwelcome in the community.
- Filing of Charges – Any individual involved in future violence or disturbances will face legal action from the Sultan Sa Barongis Municipal Police.
Both commanders voluntarily signed the agreement, signaling their commitment to peace and the welfare of their fellow residents.
Witnesses to the Peace Pact:
- PCPT Samer J. Kasan, Chief of Police, Sultan Sa Barongis
- 2LT Jabon E. Fajurang, Executive Officer, Alpha Company, 33IB
- Mr. Salahudin Maestro Angeles, Provincial Special Representative Officer
- Board Member Yasser Ampatuan
- SB Member Datu Norie Mamalo
- Bde Cmdr. Tho Sugadol Paduman, IGBC National Guard Front
- PLT Mohamad Ali, Team Leader, JPST SSB
- Mr. Sali Agay, Admin, 105th BC MILF-BIAF
- Mr. Jerry Makalay, Former Vice Mayor, Radjah Buayan
- Prince Aljoner M. Angas, Vice Mayor, Sultan Sa Barongis
- LTC Germen T. Legada, Commanding Officer, 33IB, 6ID, PA
- BGEN Edgar L. Catu, Commander, 601st Brigade, 6ID, PA
The local government and military officials hailed the agreement as a major step toward long-term peace and stability in the region.