DATU PIANG, Maguindanao del Sur — A long-standing clan conflict was formally put to rest after a successful Rido Settlement was forged between the groups of Hon. Al-Moqtar Dalandas and Commander Benao on the morning of February 11, 2026, marking a significant step toward lasting peace and stability in the area.
The peace dialogue and ceremonial signing were held at 9:00 a.m. at the Function Hall, Headquarters of the 38th Infantry Battalion (38IB), 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, located in Sitio Landing Fish, Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang. The process was led by Lt. Col. Erwin E. Felongco, Commanding Officer of the 38IB, whose mediation resulted in a formal agreement ending the feud and committing both parties to uphold peace and mutual respect.
Military-Led Mediation Brings Closure
Under the facilitation of the Philippine Army, both parties agreed to cease hostilities and signed a written pact symbolizing the definitive end of the conflict. The agreement underscores the crucial role of dialogue, trust-building, and community-based conflict resolution in addressing rido—an issue that has long affected peace and development in parts of Mindanao.
Local Government Backs Peace Effort
Datu Piang Mayor Hon. Datu Victor T. Samama, Al-Hadj, expressed the full support of the local government for the settlement, stressing that peace is the foundation of progress and public safety. He appealed to all parties to ensure that the conflict would not resurface, warning that renewed violence would only disrupt community harmony and development.
“The unity and cooperation of every individual is the key to the continuous development of our town,” the mayor said, calling on residents to protect and nurture the hard-won peace.
Broad Support From Civil and Security Sectors
Also present to show solidarity with the peace initiative were Hon. Atty. Mohammad Omar A. Samama, Vice Mayor of Datu Piang, and PCPT Oriel A. Siangco, Chief of Police of the Datu Piang Municipal Police Station. Their participation highlighted the collective commitment of civil authorities and law enforcement to sustaining peace and order.
A Model for Lasting Peace
Officials described the successful rido settlement as a clear testament to the unified efforts of the military, police, and local government in promoting reconciliation and long-term peace in conflict-affected communities. Stakeholders hope the agreement will serve as a model for resolving similar disputes across Maguindanao del Sur and the wider Bangsamoro region.
As the ink dried on the peace pact, community leaders and security forces alike expressed optimism that dialogue and cooperation—rather than violence—will now define the future of Datu Piang.