Lugus forms task force, declares town rido-free in peace push

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lugus marked a significant milestone in its peace and development agenda with the formal establishment of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC) and the declaration of Lugus as a rido-free community on 18 February at Barangay Parian Kayawan, the Philippine Army (PA) said Wednesday.

The PA said the initiative reinforces the government’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing the root causes of conflict, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and advancing long-term stability and inclusive development in the municipality.

The activity was led by Hon. Almedzar A. Hajiri, municipal mayor and chairperson of the MTF-ELAC, together with Hon. Hadar M. Hajiri, municipal vice mayor, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and all 17 barangay captains. Representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police also participated, demonstrating unified support for Lugus, which has previously been declared a gun-free and peace-centered community.

The creation of the MTF-ELAC institutionalizes a localized peace framework that harmonizes governance, security, and development efforts, while strengthening collaboration among civil authorities, security forces, and community stakeholders.

Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, commanding officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, said the initiative highlights the importance of sustained dialogue and unified leadership in preserving peace gains.

Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, emphasized that strong local governance and community ownership are vital in sustaining peace and stability.

Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, commended the LGU’s leadership, noting that the declaration reflects strengthened public trust and effective collaboration among stakeholders.

The PA said the 11th Infantry Division, in close coordination with LGUs, the Philippine National Police, and partner agencies, remains committed to sustaining peace mechanisms and promoting stable, conflict-resilient communities across Sulu.