RAJAH BUAYAN, Maguindanao del Sur — Local officials and military leaders successfully facilitated a peace dialogue and mediation between the groups of Commander Patrick Omar of the 128th Base Command and Commander Sukarno Ampatuan of the 105th Base Command to resolve a long-standing boundary dispute between Barangay Sampao in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur and Barangay Sigayan in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.
The mediation, held at the sub-office of Governor Datu Ali “Datu sa Talayan” Midtimbang, was jointly led by Governor Midtimbang, 601st Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, and Mayor Bai Maruja Ampatuan Mastura. It was also attended by Lt. Col. Germen Legada, commander of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor Datu Bassir Banjoe Utto, and Sangguniang Bayan Member Bai Asnaira Ampatuan.
The dialogue aimed to open communication channels between the two parties, whose misunderstanding over land and territorial lines had previously resulted in armed clashes and loss of lives.
Brig. Gen. Catu underscored the importance of continuous dialogue in fostering understanding and achieving long-term peace, while Governor Midtimbang reiterated his commitment to mediate and help both groups reach a lasting settlement.
“This is already the third time both parties have met for peace talks,” officials said, expressing optimism that the next round of dialogue will produce a final and binding agreement to end the hostilities.
Mayor Bai Maruja Ampatuan Mastura delivered a heartfelt message, emphasizing the need to restore trust, respect, and unity among the concerned communities. She also commended the efforts of the provincial government, local government units, and security forces for their steadfast support in promoting peaceful conflict resolution.
The Provincial Government of Maguindanao del Sur continues to push for programs such as Peace Dialogue and Rido Settlement, which aim to end clan feuds and boundary disputes through traditional mediation and open communication, thereby preventing further violence and fostering harmony across communities.
Authorities assured residents that security forces will remain vigilant to maintain peace and order in the affected areas. Meanwhile, the provincial government urged other communities in Maguindanao del Sur to embrace dialogue and cooperation as vital tools in sustaining peace and development in the region.