BAYANG, Lanao del Sur — Two long-standing clan feuds (rido) that had fueled years of tension, violence, and division in parts of Lanao del Sur have finally been resolved through a peace settlement facilitated by the 64th Infantry “Knights” Battalion in partnership with local government officials from the municipalities of Tubaran, Bayang, and Pagayawan.
The reconciliation marked a significant milestone in the province’s continuing efforts to end clan-based conflicts, which have historically disrupted peace, threatened public safety, and hampered development in many communities across the Bangsamoro region.
Led by Lieutenant Colonel Jerry B. Gaviola, Commanding Officer of the 64th Infantry Battalion, the peace initiative brought together rival families and community leaders in a formal reconciliation ceremony anchored on dialogue, mediation, and traditional Islamic customs.
The first settlement involved the Abdul Razak family of Bayang and the Bolawan family of Tubaran. According to local authorities, the feud originated from political differences that eventually escalated into violence, resulting in the loss of lives and years of hardship for both families and their respective communities.
The second reconciliation united Hon. Bamer Sarip of Barangay Guiarong, Tubaran, and Alimosa Sultan of Barangay Guiarong, Pagayawan. Their dispute stemmed from allegations involving a cattle theft incident that had created prolonged tension between the two parties.
The peace agreements were solemnized through an oath on the Holy Quran, a deeply respected Islamic tradition that symbolizes sincerity, accountability, and a binding commitment to uphold peace and prevent future hostilities.
The reconciliation ceremony was facilitated by Abdul Jabar M. Imam, whose mediation efforts were instrumental in bringing the conflicting parties together and helping them reach a peaceful resolution.
Former Lanao del Sur 2nd District Congressman Hon. Mauyag “Jun” Balt Papandayan and 2nd District Board Member Hon. Abdul Hamid Amer Betor, who played key roles in initiating and supporting the settlement process, expressed their commitment to sustaining peace throughout the province.
They emphasized that ending clan feuds is essential in transforming the image of Lanao del Sur, noting that decades of rido have not only claimed lives but have also discouraged development and undermined community stability. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working with local stakeholders to strengthen peacebuilding initiatives and prevent future conflicts.
As a tangible demonstration of reconciliation and their shared commitment to abandon violence, the concerned families voluntarily surrendered two firearms during the ceremony. Authorities described the surrender as a powerful gesture of goodwill and a concrete step toward restoring trust between the formerly opposing parties.
Military officials said the turnover of firearms reflects the willingness of the families to resolve disputes through peaceful dialogue rather than armed confrontation, reinforcing ongoing efforts to reduce the proliferation of loose firearms in conflict-affected communities.
In his message, Lieutenant Colonel Gaviola underscored that there is no place for rido in modern society, stressing that clan feuds continue to impede progress, tarnish the reputation of Lanao del Sur, and place future generations at risk.
He called on local leaders, religious authorities, security forces, and community members to remain united in promoting reconciliation, strengthening cooperation, and fostering lasting peace across the province.
“The future of our communities depends on unity, understanding, and peaceful coexistence,” Gaviola emphasized, encouraging all sectors to continue supporting initiatives that resolve conflicts through dialogue and mutual respect.
The successful settlement highlights the growing collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, traditional leaders, and peace advocates in addressing the root causes of clan conflicts and building more stable and resilient communities throughout Lanao del Sur.