TWO warring families in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan province, have signed a peace agreement, ending their longstanding "rido" through the intercession of concerned peace stakeholders, the military said Monday, December 9, 2024.
The 45th Infantry Battalion (45IB) said the signatories were that of warring families led by Halim Albi of Bohe Lebbung, and Hataman Indanan of Sitio Tagiyas, Bangcuang village, Tipo-Tipo.
The 45IB said the peace accord was signed in a ceremony on Sunday, December 8, at the municipal gymnasium of Tipo-Tipo.
The 45IB said the rido settlement was initiated and facilitated by Tipo-Tipo Vice Mayor Ingatun Istarul, together the religious leaders and officials and representatives of the Joint Peace and Security Team, religious leaders, police, and military.
"The resolution was reached through mediation, facilitated by the efforts of these local leaders, who successfully created an environment of mutual understanding and dialogue between the two parties," the 45IB said in a statement.
"With the support of the local community and the peacekeeping forces, both Mr. Albi and Mr. Indanan were able to reconcile and agree to terms that will restore peace between their families," the 45IB added.
The successful rido settlement highlights the importance of cooperation between the military, local government, law enforcement, and community leaders in maintaining peace and stability in the province, according to the 45IB.
The 45IB said the settlement provides a hopeful outlook for further peace initiatives, showing that conflicts can be resolved through collective effort and understanding. (SunStar Zamboanga)