Betwagan, Butbut tribes settle land disputes

BAGUIO CITY — Leaders of the Betwagan tribe in Mountain Province and the Butbut tribe of Tinglayan, Kalinga, resumed peace talks Saturday to resolve a long-standing territorial dispute and prevent renewed violence along their contested boundary.

The dialogue, held at Saclit National High School in Sadanga, Mountain Province, brought together tribal representatives, local officials, security forces and peace advocates to discuss boundary concerns and the possible extension of an existing ceasefire.

Officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources presented boundary maps to help both sides clarify territorial claims and establish a common basis for further discussions.

Participants also took part in an open forum, where they raised concerns and explored ways to sustain the ceasefire while negotiations continue.

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin S. Duclan, commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 102nd Infantry Battalion, opened the proceedings.

Among those present were Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan Jr., Sadanga Mayor Robert Wanawan, Brigadier General Rhenante Salvador, and Engineer Andres Ngao-i, chairperson of the Kalinga nga Matagoan Bodong Council of Elders.

Representatives of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the police and various Army units also attended, along with Tinglayan Municipal Administrator Attorney Mark Dave Bang-as, Attorney Danzel Michael Langkit and Bauko Mayor’s Special Assistant Attorney Sebastian Badongin.

The dialogue provided both communities an opportunity to air their concerns directly and work with government agencies and traditional leaders toward a peaceful settlement. Extending the ceasefire remains a key priority to protect residents and prevent hostilities from resurfacing.

The latest meeting builds on an interim ceasefire signed by the two tribes on 10 September 2026, during the Bugnay-Betwagan Peace Dialogue at Awichon Cultural Village in Lubuagan, Kalinga.