Munai, Lanao del Norte (MindaNews / 26 November) — A 17-year clan feud known as “ridó,” which claimed a life, was resolved through the joint efforts of the municipal government, the Army, and the police. The settlement was formalized on Tuesday as the warring parties pledged before the Holy Quran and signed an agreement to end hostilities and prevent further bloodshed. The ceremony, held at the municipal hall, was attended by town officials, Army officers, and Philippine National Police representatives. Mayor Racma Andamama highlighted the municipal government’s role in facilitating continuous dialogues to reach the final agreement, emphasizing how the feud disrupted livelihoods and caused fear. As part of the resolution, firearms used in the conflict, including M16 and M14 rifles, a Garand, a Carbine, and two homemade Uzi submachine guns, were surrendered under the Small and Light Weapons (SALW) Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU). Mobarak Abdulrahim, a municipal councilor and commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s 130th Base Command, revealed that the ridó began in 2008 due to a land dispute. Engineer Mangontawar Andamama, the mayor’s husband, shared his family’s past experience with a ridó, noting how fear of retaliation prevented them from delivering farm produce to market. He explained that Maranao culture often involves resolving such disputes through “blood money.” Brig. Gen. Ronel Manalo encouraged civilians to surrender loose firearms under the SALW program while emphasizing that legally acquired firearms are permitted. He stressed that resolving ridós not only promotes peace but also opens livelihood opportunities for the community. (Richel V. Umel / MindaNews)
