LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — January 23, 2026 — A long-standing misunderstanding between families in Lamitan City was peacefully resolved on Thursday through an amicable settlement witnessed by top military, local government, and peace leaders—marking another milestone in Basilan’s continuing peacebuilding efforts.
Brigadier General Frederick M. Sales, Commander of the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade, witnessed the agreement between the family of Salman Anjalin Gappal and the families of Nuri Majid Alki, Nurhan Asdali Alki, and Komeni Agasid Alki during a formal dialogue held at the headquarters of the 18th Infantry Battalion.
The parties involved, all residents of Lamitan City but originally from the municipalities of Akbar and Al-Barka, reached a peaceful resolution following sustained mediation and dialogue facilitated by local leaders, security forces, and peace partners. Officials said the settlement reflects the growing effectiveness of community-based conflict resolution mechanisms in the province.
Also present as witnesses were Lt. Col. Anthony C. Caro, Commanding Officer of the 18th Infantry Battalion; Hon. Alih Sali, Mayor of Akbar; Hon. Noel Baul, Lamitan City Councilor; Hji. Sammad Atain of the MILF–Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH); and Hon. Sulaiman Hotong and Hon. Halid Anjalin, Municipal Councilors of Al-Barka.
In his message, Brig. Gen. Sales lauded the families for choosing reconciliation over violence and commended the collaborative efforts of the military, local government units, and peace stakeholders in guiding the dialogue toward a constructive outcome.
“This settlement shows that lasting peace is achievable when communities, local leaders, and security forces work together with sincerity and mutual respect,” Sales said. “The Armed Forces of the Philippines remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote harmony, stability, and sustainable peace in Basilan.”
The activity underscores the AFP’s continued support for local peace mechanisms and its commitment to strengthening grassroots conflict resolution as a cornerstone of peace and security operations in the province—an approach officials say is vital to sustaining long-term stability in Basilan and neighboring areas.