Kalinga group seeks ceasefire in tribal conflict

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Civil society organization SAVE Kalinga Inc. has called for an immediate ceasefire, stronger security measures and greater transparency amid escalating hostilities between the Butbut and Tulgao tribes in Tinglayan, Kalinga.

In a letter dated 20 October, the group expressed concern over reported casualties and continuing tensions along the tribes' ancestral boundaries.

While acknowledging the special Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held on 19 October, SAVE Kalinga stressed that resolving the conflict requires sustained government intervention beyond closed-door discussions.

The organization urged provincial officials, police and military authorities to establish a visible security presence and protect buffer zones to prevent further violence.

It also called for the participation of civil society groups in public consultations, peace negotiations and conflict-resolution efforts involving tribal leaders.

SAVE Kalinga emphasized the importance of the traditional bodong, or indigenous peace pact system, while maintaining that government agencies remain responsible for enforcing the law and protecting residents.

The group urged local officials to maintain an active presence in affected communities and issue regular public updates on security operations, mediation efforts and emergency responses.

It said transparent communication could help counter misinformation, reduce public anxiety and rebuild trust among affected communities.

SAVE Kalinga maintained that its recommendations were intended to support traditional mediation efforts while ensuring government accountability in protecting public safety.