Alamada, Cotabato — A milestone for peace and unity unfolded in Alamada as the families of Saavedra D. Mayo, Samsodin R. Dimatunday, and Usop K. Mindaya formally ended their long-standing dispute through a Simokt Settlement, a traditional reconciliation process deeply rooted in local customs.
The historic reconciliation was spearheaded by Mayor Pahmia Aratuc Manalao-Masurong and Vice Mayor Abolais Aratuc Manalao, with the strong support of Mayor Jesus Sacdalan, Councilor Gandawali Tamay, Senior Councilor Atty. Cairoden P. Pangunotan, as well as representatives from the Alamada and Buldon Municipal Police Stations and the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Team.
The settlement was not just a formal agreement but a living testament to the power of dialogue and cooperation in resolving disputes. Families from both sides welcomed the outcome with gratitude and relief, marking a fresh chapter of harmony for their kin and community.
Mayor Manalao-Masurong emphasized the significance of the occasion, affirming: “Unity is stronger than conflict. Choosing dialogue builds a better future for the next generations.”
Community leaders hailed the settlement as an example of how traditional practices, when combined with collaborative governance and peace mechanisms, can help strengthen bonds within and among families. The presence of local officials and peace advocates highlighted the importance of collective support in sustaining reconciliation efforts.
For many in Alamada, the Simokt Settlement represents more than the end of a dispute—it is a beacon of hope. It shows that conflicts, no matter how deep-seated, can be resolved when communities choose peace over division.
As Alamada moves forward, this reconciliation stands as a reminder that lasting peace begins at the grassroots level, where families and leaders come together to uphold unity and ensure a better future for the next generation.