DATU SALIBO, Maguindanao del Sur — A long-standing rift between Mayor Khominie Sandigan and Vice Mayor Omar Ali of Datu Salibo has finally been settled through the intervention of Maguindanao del Sur Governor Hadji Datu Ali Midtimbang.
For several months, tensions within the local government had disrupted administrative coordination, leading to a nearly five-month delay in the salaries of municipal employees — a situation that caused hardship among affected workers and hampered the delivery of essential services.
Governor Midtimbang personally convened a dialogue between Mayor Sandigan and Vice Mayor Ali to hear their concerns and help them reach a mutual understanding for the benefit of their constituents.
“It is important to restore cooperation and trust between local officials to ensure the continuous delivery of basic services,” Governor Midtimbang emphasized, noting that the welfare of the people must always come first.
During the meeting, the governor urged both leaders to prioritize governance and put aside political differences to resume stalled social programs, including medical assistance, educational support, and community development projects.
Both Mayor Sandigan and Vice Mayor Ali expressed their willingness to cooperate and move forward, assuring that they will work hand in hand for the progress and stability of Datu Salibo.
Governor Midtimbang thanked the two officials for their openness and commitment to reconciliation. He expressed hope that the agreement would mark “a new beginning for peace and unity in Datu Salibo’s local governance,” paving the way for better service delivery and renewed public trust.