MAMASAPANO, Maguindanao del Sur — December 14, 2025 — A potentially volatile family dispute in Barangay Lusay, Mamasapano was peacefully resolved on Sunday following a community-led dialogue that brought together two opposing clans led by Hajie Noel Kasuyo and Bhodz Tunggala.
The reconciliation meeting was spearheaded by Barangay Chairman Hon. Faizal Pananggulon, with the active support of commanders from the 105th and 106th Base Commands, marking a significant step toward restoring peace and unity in the area.
Through the mediation efforts of respected leaders, both parties reached a mutual agreement to end their misunderstanding and prevent further escalation. Among those who played key roles in facilitating the settlement were Commander Datu Jayfee Emran, Commander Datu Ella Utto, Commander Abunawas Pilmin (105th Base Command), Commander Bajunaid Pilmin, Commander Malikol Sinsuat, Commander Hadzmin Tagadaya (106th Base Command), and Tambunawas Pilmin. Also present were members of the Barangay Lupon, including Datu Michael Utto Datumanong, Engr. Sultan Guinaid Utto Malang, and Sultan Abdul Gani (Ret.) Guiapal.
As part of the agreement, both sides committed to provide ₱250,000 in “cleansing money” or pakadtabang to assist those injured in the earlier incident. The actual turnover of financial assistance will take place later this December, to be accompanied by a Kanduli, a traditional communal gathering symbolizing forgiveness, solidarity, and the restoration of familial ties.
Local officials emphasized that the peace accord reflects the shared commitment of the community to resolve conflicts through dialogue rather than violence. The successful mediation forms part of the broader peace and order initiative of Mayor Hon. Datu Akmad Bots Ampatuan Jr., in coordination with Vice Mayor Hon. Datu Akmad Ampatuan Sr.
In a message relayed during the dialogue, the municipal leadership urged all parties to maintain calm and avoid reopening old wounds, stressing that the two groups are bound by blood and history as one family.
Community leaders hailed the agreement as a model for conflict resolution in Maguindanao del Sur, underscoring the power of unity, traditional leadership, and collective responsibility in sustaining lasting peace.