SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao del Sur — The 601st Infantry “Unifier” Brigade of the Philippine Army reaffirmed its crucial role as a bridge for peace as it led a follow-up meeting to strengthen the peace agreement between two previously feuding clans in this town, underscoring the continuing collaboration between the military and local government to sustain stability in Maguindanao del Sur.
The meeting, held on November 12, 2025, at the Municipal Hall of Shariff Aguak, was spearheaded by Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade. Also in attendance were officers from the 33rd Infantry Battalion, 90th Infantry Battalion, and Civil-Military Operations units, alongside Mayor Akmad Ampatuan, Vice Mayor Oping Ampatuan, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and representatives from the MILF-Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (MILF-CCCH).
The activity aimed to monitor and reinforce the earlier peace settlement between Kumander Toabak and Kumander Maki, whose long-standing rido (clan feud) had once fueled violence in the community.
Army’s role as peace unifier
Brig. Gen. Catu emphasized that the Philippine Army’s mission in Maguindanao del Sur goes beyond maintaining security—it is about unifying divided communities.
“As Unifier Troopers, we live up to our name. The 601st Brigade is not only a guardian of peace but also a unifying force among those once divided. True peace can only be achieved through unity, respect, and understanding,” Catu said in his address.
He added that the Army will continue to support community-led and local government initiatives that promote reconciliation and long-term peace.
“May this serve as an inspiration for other communities to settle disputes peacefully. Our goal is a region united in peace and development,” he added.
Local government partnership
For his part, Mayor Akmad Ampatuan lauded the efforts of both the military and the two factions for committing to peace, highlighting the importance of cooperation among all sectors.
“Peace is not only the duty of the military or the government—it is the responsibility of every citizen. I call on everyone to embrace forgiveness and start a new chapter of unity,” Ampatuan said.
He also expressed gratitude to the 601st Brigade and the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division for their continued dedication to peacebuilding efforts in Shariff Aguak.
MILF and community cooperation
Representatives from the MILF-CCCH also joined the dialogue, signifying the collaborative spirit between government forces and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in sustaining post-conflict peace mechanisms.
Meanwhile, Major General Jose Vladimer R. Cagara, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, commended the initiative, noting that peace settlements like this are vital to regional progress.
“Each success like this proves that we can resolve disputes peacefully. Peace is the foundation of progress,” Cagara said in a message of support.
Sustaining the peace
The Shariff Aguak peace dialogue forms part of the 601st Brigade’s ongoing peace and security initiatives under the 6th Infantry Division, in partnership with local government units, MILF-CCCH, and community leaders.
The Army’s continued engagement in local peacebuilding, paired with the proactive leadership of the municipal government, highlights a shared vision—a Maguindanao del Sur where lasting peace serves as the cornerstone of development and unity.