A renewed sense of peace and unity now echoes through Barangay Baguindan in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, as once-warring parties formally reconciled in a symbolic Pagsulut Duk Pagduwaa ritual held today — a cultural and spiritual gesture marking the healing of deep-seated conflicts that have divided local communities.
The historic gathering took place at the Raayat Hall and was attended by both parties involved in the conflict, alongside key government and religious leaders. Among those present were Mufti of Basilan Dr. Abhoukhair Tarasin, members of the Provincial Government Negotiating Team, Alrasheed Sakkalahul, Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia “Dadah” Turabin Hataman, Tipo-Tipo Mayor Ingatun “Tong” Istarul, Akbar Mayor Alih Sali, Tuburan Mayor Durie Kallahal, Board Members Ronnie Hantian and Nurkan Istarul, MILF Commander Rajan Adurahman, PNP Provincial Director Col. Cerrazid Umabong, and 101st Infantry Brigade Commander BGen. Frederick Sales.
Governor Mujiv Hataman lauded the reconciliation as a “significant step toward lasting peace and sustainable development,” thanking the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and community leaders for their cooperation during the two-day peace initiative.
“We are happy with the outcome of the Pagsulut. It is clear to everyone that progress will remain elusive if conflicts persist among our communities. That is why we continue to work for reconciliation and lasting peace in Basilan,” Hataman said.
MILF Commander Adurahman echoed the governor’s message, urging communities to embrace mutual understanding and compassion grounded in their shared faith and culture. He extended gratitude to the MILF members, security forces, and elders who facilitated the reconciliation.
Col. Umabong described the event as a “new chapter” for Basilan, emphasizing that peace must be demonstrated through actions that nurture love and cooperation among communities.
Meanwhile, BGen. Sales called for continued collaboration to maintain security and prevent future conflicts, while Mayor Istarul vowed that the local government would convene a Peace Summit to build on the momentum of the Pagsulut Duk Pagduwaa.
“Many have been affected by these conflicts,” Istarul said. “We are grateful to everyone who helped guide us through this process, and we are determined to sustain peace in our barangays.”
The Pagsulut Duk Pagduwaa, an indigenous ritual rooted in Tausug and Yakan traditions, symbolizes the cleansing of past grievances and the restoration of harmony between rival clans. Its revival in Tipo-Tipo stands as a testament to Basilan’s commitment to cultural-based peacebuilding — proving that healing can begin not only through policy, but through tradition and faith.