Al-barka, Basilan — In a place once shadowed by long-standing conflict, a historic day of peace unfolded as Governor Mujiv Hataman led the traditional “Pagsulut si Antara” — a sacred reconciliation ritual — between the Ladjid and Jakilan families, who had been divided by decades of feud.
Under the blazing sun and before a crowd of witnesses from various sectors, the two clan leaders — Mayor Jaydeefar Ladjid and Mujib Jakilan — clasped hands, symbolizing the end of a rift that had deeply affected not just their families but the entire community of Albarka.
Governor Hataman called the ceremony part of the provincial government’s broader effort to end clan conflicts, known locally as rido, which have long hindered peace and development in Basilan.
“Anuman ang nangyari, kailangan nating tanggapin at magpatuloy,” Hataman said, urging forgiveness and unity.
He described the reconciliation as a “sacred test” that every family entangled in feuds must face. He further expressed hope that this act of peace would inspire other municipalities still burdened by old wounds to follow the same path toward reconciliation.
“Nananalangin kami na balang araw, ang pagkakaisang ito ay maramdaman din ng aking kapatid na Pangalawang Gobernador,” Hataman added, referring to his brother, Vice Governor Jim Hataman Salliman.
Brigadier General Frederick Sales, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, lauded the peace initiative, describing it as “a victory for peace.” He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to supporting the province’s continuing journey toward stability and growth.
Basilan Provincial Prosecutor Atty. Nurdarda Hajail also emphasized the importance of legal recognition for such community peace agreements. She encouraged residents to register peaceful settlements with their office so they could be documented and implemented within the bounds of the law.
The ceremony drew representatives from the Basilan Council of Elders, Ulama Supreme Council, AFP, PNP, and MILF, along with several key provincial figures — including PNP Provincial Director Cerrazid Umabong, Basilan Ulama Supreme Council President Dr. Aboukhair Tarrason, 45th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Frank Baylon, Tipo-Tipo Mayor Ingatun “Tong” Istarul, Alrasheed Sakkalahul, former Bangsamoro Parliament members Abdulmuhmin Mujahid and Alzad Sattar, and former Maluso Mayor Hanie Bud. All expressed their full support for the province’s continuing pursuit of peace and unity.
For Governor Hataman, the Pagsulut si Antara embodies more than a ritual — it is a living testament that reconciliation is possible when courage, trust, and hope come together.
“Ang kapayapaan,” he said, “ay hindi lamang panaginip kundi bunga ng sama-samang tapang, pagtitiwala, at pag-asa.”
As the echoes of the ceremony faded into the Basilan air, the handshake between the Ladjid and Jakilan clans stood as a powerful reminder — that even in a land once divided, peace can take root when hearts choose healing over hatred.