LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — A violent feud between the families of two Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commanders was resolved Sunday, ending more than a decade of conflict that claimed 20 lives and displaced dozens of families in Basilan province.

Governor Mujiv Hataman led the settlement between the clans of Commander Tanad Yunus and Commander Arasad Addala during a ceremony at the provincial capitol. The feud, which began in 2009, affected 26 families and was rooted in personal grievances and misunderstandings that escalated over 10 years.

Hataman described the agreement as the largest and most significant peace settlement spearheaded by the provincial government since he took office. It marks the eighth major conflict resolved under his administration.

“This settlement is not just about ending a feud; it’s about building a foundation for lasting peace that will benefit generations to come,” Hataman said. “Our children deserve a future free from fear.”

Brig. Gen. Frederick M. Sales, commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, said the long-standing violence had disrupted development across the municipalities of Al-Barka, Mohammad Ajul and Tuburan.

He cited that with the commanders now on good terms, stability is expected to return to the areas where both clans hold significant influence.

The settlement, titled “Pägsulut Duk Pägduwä’ä PAGBANTA,” was facilitated by the provincial government in coordination with the military, the Basilan Council of Elders, and religious leaders.

Witnesses to the signing included the Mufti of Basilan, members of the Provincial Board and the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council. Lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office were also present to provide legal assistance during the proceedings.