Tabuan-Lasa, Basilan Province— In a landmark event on December 17, 2024, the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade, under the leadership of Brigadier General Alvin V. Luzon, facilitated the resolution of three long-standing family disputes in collaboration with the local government and community stakeholders. The ceremony, held at Barangay Bukut-umus, Tabuan-Lasa, marked a significant milestone in fostering peace and unity in the region.
The event was spearheaded by the 4th Special Forces Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Adolf Ian Garceron, with the active support of Honorable Moner S. Manisan, Mayor of Tabuan-Lasa. The disputes, rooted in conflicts over fishing activities and involving members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), were resolved after extensive mediation and dialogue.
Resolving Long-Standing Rido
The three disputes, or “rido” (clan feuds), that were settled include:
- A conflict between the party of Rohong Mukabbil, Hadji Jaafar Jawalun, and Timhar Sawalun versus the group of Hadji Ansar Nurpsa and Hadji Jerry Danil.
- A feud involving Hadji Ansar Nurpa and Hadji Jerry Danil against Abdulbasid Addulgani, Anteng Asil, Kailan Isdani, and Betong Asay.
- A dispute between Asmi Sahiddi, Benji Saidil, and Ibni Saidil against Abdulbasid Abdulgani, Sakod Jamiri, and Nasirin Juhuri.
These conflicts, which have disrupted the social fabric of Tabuan-Lasa for years, were resolved through the persistent efforts of the military, local government, and community leaders.
Symbolic Surrender of Firearms
As a testament to the peace process, nine high-powered and three low-powered firearms were voluntarily surrendered by the feuding parties. The cache included a .50 caliber Barrett rifle, three Garand rifles, an M16A1, an improvised M14 single-shot rifle, an M79 grenade launcher, two shotguns, and three .45 caliber pistols.
The surrendered weapons were presented by Mayor Manisan to Brigadier General Luzon and Basilan Governor Honorable Hadjiman Hataman-Salliman. The symbolic gesture underscored the parties’ commitment to peace and marked the transformation of Tabuan-Lasa into a “rido-free” municipality.
Building a Culture of Peace
Brigadier General Luzon emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts, stating, “Peace and harmony are not the absence of conflict but our ability to resolve these conflicts peacefully. We, the TRAJAN troopers, promote the culture of dialogue to set an environment of understanding, which allows us to resolve conflicts through peaceful means.”
The activity was attended by notable figures, including Governor Salliman, Lieutenant Colonel Garceron, Captain Dann Mar Palma of the 15th Special Forces Company, local chief executives, representatives from the Basilan Provincial Police Office, and members of the MNLF.
Lasting Impact on the Community
The resolution of these disputes has significantly impacted the community of Tabuan-Lasa, fostering a renewed sense of security and trust. It also highlights the collaborative efforts of the 101st Infantry Brigade, the 4th Special Forces Battalion, and the local government in achieving sustainable peace in Basilan Province.
This achievement marks a new chapter for Tabuan-Lasa and sets an example for neighboring communities striving to overcome longstanding disputes. With the continued commitment of all stakeholders, the dream of lasting peace in Basilan is closer to becoming a reality.