Rido between Basilan mayor, village chief finally settled
'This is not just about two individuals shaking hands; it is about securing a brighter future for our people.'
TABUAN LASA, Basilan — A long-running clan feud, or “rido,” between the families of former Tabuan Lasa Mayor Muctar Junaid and barangay chairperson Najer Jakaria has been formally settled, the military reported Sunday.
The peace pact, which marks a major step toward stability for the island town, was facilitated by the provincial government and the military, said Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, adding that the reconciliation between the rival political groups was sealed with a handshake between Junaid and Jakaria during a solemn ceremony Thursday at the Barangay Kaumpurnah Basketball Court.
Both the governor and Brig. Gen. Frederick M. Sales, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, oversaw the event.
Sales said the resolution to the years-long tension was also witnessed by leaders from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, underscoring the high-level commitment to local peacebuilding efforts.
During the signing, both officials committed to setting aside their political differences for the sake of their constituents. The agreement includes provisions for future collaboration on local governance and development projects, Sales said.
“This is not just about two individuals shaking hands; it is about securing a brighter future for our people,” former Mayor Junaid said. “By working together, we can address the pressing needs of our community, from education to infrastructure, without the distraction of political rivalries.”
Jakaria echoed the sentiment, saying that “our priority must be the welfare of our people. The path to progress is built on unity, not division.”
Sales called the resolution a testament to the persistent efforts of community elders and peace advocates. He specifically lauded the Army’s 6th Special Forces Battalion and the 32nd Infantry Battalion for facilitating the dialogues that led to the peace pact.
The 101st Infantry Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and reconciliation initiatives across Basilan, emphasizing that the military will continue to work with local leaders and community stakeholders to promote harmony in remote communities.