KALINGALAN CALUANG, Sulu — A potentially violent conflict was averted following the successful amicable settlement between the Juaini and Sulaiman families on July 21, 2025, after a gunfire incident last month threatened to escalate tensions in the area.
The formal settlement, held at the Headquarters of Alpha Company, 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, was the result of coordinated efforts among the military, local government units, barangay leaders, and the Philippine National Police. The reconciliation was overseen by Col. Alex H. Gagula, Deputy Brigade Commander, on behalf of Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade. He was joined by Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of 21IB.
The dispute stemmed from a June 10 incident during a Spoua—a Muslim tradition held on the seventh day after a death—at Brgy. Pangdan-Pangdan. The Juaini family, visiting a cemetery they believed to be ancestral, was denied entry by members of the Sulaiman family, who claimed ownership of the land. The confrontation escalated, leading to warning shots fired in the direction of the Juaini family.
Recognizing the potential for further violence, the 21IB and concerned stakeholders immediately initiated efforts to mediate the conflict. The resulting settlement not only calmed tensions but also included the voluntary surrender of the firearm involved in the incident—a symbolic gesture aimed at restoring peace and accountability.
Key local officials present during the signing of the agreement included Hon. Hji Sherhan E. Najar, 2nd District Board Member; Hon. Walton Sahidjuwan, SB Secretary of Kalingalan Caluang; and barangay chairpersons Hon. Sasad A. Madjuri (Brgy Kambing), Hon. Nurhakim G. Unga (Brgy Tuyang, Talipao), Hon. Marganie Radjili (Brgy Mabahay, Talipao), Hon. Wahab Itning (Brgy Tampakan, Talipao), and Hon. Najir Susulan (Brgy Pangdan). PEMS Michael Taulani represented the Kalingalan Caluang Municipal Police Station.
Col. Gagula highlighted the significance of the peaceful resolution, stating, “This is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with sincerity, respect for tradition, and a shared commitment to peace. Our role is not just to secure, but to unite.”
He further conveyed the message of Brig. Gen. Delos Santos, emphasizing the military’s role as peacekeepers: “We are not just soldiers of war, but peacekeepers who will exhaust all efforts to prevent violence from taking root in our barangays.”
The 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade reiterated its dedication to community-based conflict resolution and encouraged all stakeholders across Sulu to uphold dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect as the foundation for peace.