THE 1102nd Infantry Brigade (1102Bde) have successfully facilitated a formal amicable settlement between two warring families in Kalingalan Caluang, Sulu, preventing further escalation of the conflict and promoting peaceful resolution within the community.
The settlement between the Juaini and Sulaiman families was held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the headquarters of the 21st Infantry Battalion's Alpha Company and was made possible through the collaborative efforts of military, local government, and barangay officials.
The reconciliation proceeding was jointly presided by Colonel Alex Gagula, 1102Bde deputy brigade commander and Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Borras, 21st Infantry Battalion (21IB) commander.
Gagula represented Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, 1102Bde commander, during the event.
The 1102Bde said the conflict stemmed from a shooting incident that took place on June 10 in Barangay Pangdan-Pangdan during a Spoua, a Muslim tradition observed on the 7th day after a death.
The Juaini family, while visiting a cemetery claimed by the Sulaiman family, was met with hostility by certain community members who denied them entry.
A heated argument ensued, culminating in warning shots being fired toward the Juaini family.
The 1102Bde said that as part of the conditions of the amicable settlement, the parties agreed not only to peacefully resolve their dispute but also to voluntarily surrender the firearm used during the incident to authorities, marking a symbolic and practical step toward rebuilding trust and accountability.
The timely intervention of the 21IB and partner stakeholders, both families were brought to the table, where they agreed to de-escalate the matter and resolve their grievances through peaceful means.
"This is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with sincerity, respect for tradition, and a shared commitment to peace. Our role is not just to secure, but to unite," Gagula said.
"The 1102Bde will always stand as a bridge between communities in conflict. We are not just soldiers of war, but peacekeepers who will exhaust all efforts to prevent violence from taking root in our barangays," said Gagula, speaking on behalf of Delos Santos.
He said the amicable settlement sends a powerful message, that even in the face of deep grievances, dialogue remains the most effective weapon.
The amicable settlement between the Juaini and Sulaiman families was witnessed by municipal, village and police officials and other concerned stakeholders. (SunStar Zamboanga)