LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — The provincial government of Basilan, in collaboration with the military and local peace leaders, successfully mediated a long-standing clan feud, or “rido,” between two prominent families from Al-Barka municipality to prevent a wider conflict.

Governor Mujiv S. Hataman presided over the peace settlement between the Basri Abdulajid Ballaho and Jungah Usman Suwaid Kandum clans on Friday during a community-mediation session titled “Pagsulut duk Pagdwaa: Pagbanta.”

The session was held at the Raayat Hall, People’s Provincial Capitol, Basilan Government Center in Sta. Clara, Lamitan City.

Hataman stressed that the goal of the settlement was to resolve the matter through legitimate provincial mediators, ensuring that “law and respect for tradition guide peace in the community.”

“This was done using a process that was transparent, paper-based, and coordinated by the ulama, prosecutors, security sector, and LGUs to end the tension before it escalated,” Hataman said.

The governor cited that the process involved the expertise of the ulama (Islamic scholars), alignment with police, and assurances from prosecutors that all agreements were legally binding and documented.

He also said that proper discussion and collaborative action among the community and institutions are the most effective defense against family conflicts.

Brig. Gen. Frederick M. Sales, commander of the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade, also addressed the families, saying that “peace, understanding, and effective communication must be the foremost tools” for resolving disputes and preventing clan wars in Basilan.

Sales warned the two families and community members that a “small action... may escalate into conflict.”

The military official commended the governor’s commitment to peacebuilding, noting that the initiative “reflects a governance that values dialogue, unity, and the protection of every Basileño.”

The settlement concluded with the voluntary commitment of both clans to uphold peace and prevent further hostilities, which the military recognized as a significant milestone in Basilan’s ongoing pursuit of stability and development. The 1101st Brigade reiterated its full support for all peace initiatives in the province.