Rido settlement means Clan feud ends, transformation to Peace prevails in Pualas, Lanao del Sur

 

Rituals of Muslim prayers during the Rido settlement. 

 

By JUN ENRIQUEZ, Publisher-Editor

Pualas, Lanao del Sur - A Rido settlement of clan feuds was conducted in Sitio Tanaon, Bargy Dapao, Pualas, Lanao del Sur on July 15, 2025, a land mark peacebuilding event actively participated by the 51st Infantry (FUERTO UNO) Battalion to prevail peace by ending clan feuds. The said rido settlement was attended by and between the Base commander Samin Pamaloy and former Base commander Abu Salman Macanaic Pamaloy, both of the 126th MILF base command.

The conflict rooted in a series of incidents originated in 2021 that include shootings, killings, and burning of houses, which remarkably disrupted peace and security in the affected community, but now has been peacefully resolved through traditional means of reconciliation.

This significant milestone was achieved through the steadfast collaboration of various local, traditional, and religious leaders, who demonstrated exemplary unity and commitment to peace.

Among the instrumental figures in the traditional peace process were Atty. Pangalian Balindong, Speaker of the Bangsamoro Parliament; Hon. Alinader Dagar M. Balindong, Former Mayor of Malabang, Lanao del Sur; Hon. Yasser A. Balindong, Congressman of the 2nd District, Lanao del Sur; Hon. Amin D. Balindong, Mayor, Malabang, Lanao del Sur; Hon. Mesron D. Balindong, Mayor, Picong, Lanao del Sur; Hon. Al-Ihsan Mama Ibrahim, Mayor, Pualas, Lanao del Sur.

The concerted efforts of the stakeholders from different municipalities reflect the power of collective leadership and the importance of sustaining peace through indigenous mechanisms and community-based dialogue. 

The resolution underscores the growing mindset shift from armed confrontation to a peaceful dialogue as the preferred means of addressing individual and clan-based feuds. The event also emphasized the importance of preserving Maranao cultural traditions in settling disputes rejecting outdated practices that perpetuate violence and bring chaos and havoc to the invloved individuals, clans, and the community as a whole.

Moreover, this settlement reaffirms the unity among MILF members, who remain steadfast in their support for lasting peace. Contrary to fears and division, the involved parties demonstrated their will to build a more stable and progressive community which marks another step forward in aligning local initiatives with broader peace and development goals.

"We achieve dignity in forgiveness, and strength in unity", said Bangsamoro Parliament Speaker Atty. Pangalian M. Balindong.  

The #TeamStrongOne affirms its continued commitment to supporting peaceful conflict resolution, community reconciliation, and strengthening local security through paceful and diplomatic means. The successful settlement is a testament to enduring value of cultural respect, dialogue and collaboration in addressing the causes of conflict as its roots. (With reports from Press release by 51st IB PA Information Team; Jenifer Bagonbon, Digital-Mobile Journalist)