Old Basilan feud finally settled

LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — What began as a bitter feud that divided families for more than a decade ended this week in a quiet but powerful act of reconciliation.

Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman led the settlement of a long-standing rido (clan feud) between the Lajid and Jakilan families of Al-Barka town through a traditional peace ritual known as “Pagsulut si Antara.”

The ceremony took place Thursday at the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade Headquarters in Tabiawan, Isabela City, with both sides finally laying down the burdens of their conflict — and their arms.

Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales, commander of the 101st Brigade, said the reconciliation between Al-Barka Mayor Jaydeefar Lajid and members of the Jakilan clan was not just symbolic, but a concrete step toward lasting peace. As part of the peace pact, both families surrendered 10 high-powered firearms, marking the end of years of animosity.

Governor Hataman, who personally mediated the process, said the settlement reflects the province’s continuing journey toward unity and progress.

“Whatever happened in the past, we must accept and move forward,” Hataman told the two clans as they shook hands in front of local leaders, soldiers, and religious elders.

The event drew local officials, the Council of Elders, the Ulama Supreme Council, and representatives from the AFP, PNP and MILF — all standing together as witnesses to the province’s renewed commitment to peace.

For Brig. Gen. Sales, the reconciliation was “a victory for peace” and proof that dialogue and tradition remain powerful tools for healing old wounds.

In a province once scarred by strife, the reunion of the Lajid and Jakilan families served as a poignant reminder: peace, however long delayed, is still possible — when courage and forgiveness prevail.