Omar, Sulu — In a renewed push to preserve peace and prevent clan conflicts, the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade recently led a Localized Peace Engagement at the headquarters of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, reinforcing the commitment to maintain Gun-Free and Rido-Free communities in Omar and Luuk, Sulu.
The gathering brought together ten leaders of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), community representatives, and security partners, highlighting the growing collaboration between local stakeholders and government forces in sustaining peace across the island province.
The engagement was presided over by Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Brigade Commander, alongside Dante E. Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101st Infantry Battalion. Personnel from the Omar Municipal Police Station also took part, underscoring strong inter-agency cooperation in community-based peacebuilding.
Building Peace Through Dialogue
During the discussions, participants emphasized the vital role of unity, open communication, and shared responsibility in preventing violence and resolving long-standing disputes. The forum focused on sustaining local initiatives aimed at curbing the proliferation of loose firearms and addressing “rido,” or clan feuds, which have historically fueled instability in parts of Sulu.
MNLF leaders present at the activity openly pledged their support for the Gun-Free and Rido-Free programs, committing to promote reconciliation and harmony within their respective communities.
“This partnership reflects our collective desire to move forward together, away from conflict and toward lasting peace,” one community representative said.
Lt. Col. Mantes reaffirmed the battalion’s readiness to support local leaders and residents, stressing that security forces remain committed to protecting communities while empowering them to take ownership of peace efforts.
“Peace cannot be imposed. It must be nurtured by the people themselves, with the military and police serving as partners,” he said.
Shared Responsibility for Stability
Brig. Gen. Delos Santos, for his part, underscored that sustainable peace requires continuous engagement and mutual trust between security forces and civilians.
“Lasting stability is built on dialogue and cooperation. When communities and authorities work hand in hand, violence loses its space,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, highlighted the importance of grassroots partnerships in conflict prevention.
He stressed that close coordination between military units, local governments, and community leaders is crucial in sustaining stability and addressing emerging security concerns before they escalate.
A Pledge for Peace
The activity concluded with the ceremonial signing of a Pledge of Support, symbolizing the unified commitment of military officials, police officers, MNLF leaders, and community representatives to uphold peace in Omar and Luuk.
The pledge serves not only as a formal agreement but also as a moral commitment to resolve disputes through dialogue, discourage the possession of illegal firearms, and promote a culture of cooperation and respect.
Local officials expressed hope that the initiative would inspire more communities in Sulu to adopt similar approaches, strengthening grassroots peace mechanisms and reinforcing public trust.
As Sulu continues its journey toward long-term stability, the latest peace engagement stands as a testament to the power of collaboration—showing that when communities and institutions unite, peace becomes not just an aspiration, but a shared responsibility.