47-year brgy feud settled by Basilan troops, local gov’t

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Military and local leaders facilitated the settlement of a 47-year feud among residents of Tipo-Tipo, barka, and Lamitan City in Basilan this morning, August 22.

The longstanding conflict among residents of Barangays Bohe Tambak, Bohe Lebbung, Bohe Baca of Tipo-Tipo and Barangays Cambug, Kailih of Albarka and Parang Basak of Lamitan City crippled the delivery of basic government services and the economy and education in said barangays.

Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Joint Task Force Basilan Commander, and Basilan Congressman Mujiv Hataman witnessed the Rido settlement at the headquarters of the 18^th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan at 10am today, August 22.

“More than a hundred lives perished due to the conflict that finally ended this morning, thus contributing to our peace, security, and development efforts in Basilan,” said 18IB Commander Lt. Col. Ivan San Jose, who facilitated said settlement.

Brig. Gen. Reyeg, meanwhile, expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation, especially to those primarily involved in the conflict for allowing at their own freewill for peace to finally reign in their community.

The 18IB said warring groups agreed to end their conflict without financial compensation or blood money.

“By ending their personal feuds, the constituents of Basilan prove they are willing to lend a helping hand in our security and development efforts. This is crucial in ending armed struggles as the security forces move to disarm private groups and end local armed conflicts in the area,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Western Mindanao Command.

Present were representatives of Albarka, Tipo-Tipo, and Lamitan City LGUs; members of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council; and Dr. Arlyn Jumao-as, founder of the Save the Children of War Foundation.