Warring Families in Lanao del Sur Settle Four-Year Feud Through Peace Accord
In a significant development for peace and stability, two warring families from the towns of Lumbaca-Unayan and Pagayawan in Lanao del Sur have officially agreed to settle their more than four-year-old dispute. The peace accord was signed on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following concerted efforts by local officials, religious leaders, the security sector, and community elders, as confirmed by the military on Friday, February 20.
Details of the Peace Settlement
The signatories of the peace pact are the families of Hadji Pais and Mamualas from Lumbaca-Dilausan village in Lumbaca-Unayan, on one side, and the family of Panda Macaurog from Lanindingan village in Pagayawan, on the other. The ceremony was held at the Pagayawan town hall and witnessed by members of the Ulama Council, along with municipal, provincial, military, and police officials. Relatives from both families attended, demonstrating their full support for reconciliation and an end to hostilities.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict between these families began on January 5, 2022, when a member of one family was killed in Beta village, Tubaran, after being suspected of having an illicit relationship with a married woman. This tragic incident sparked a series of retaliatory killings, including the death of a 14-year-old student at Mindanao State University (MSU)–Marawi City on April 25, 2022, and the killing of a suspect in Lanao del Norte in 2025. According to the 64th Infantry Battalion (64IB), these events significantly increased tensions between the two families and their surrounding communities, threatening local peace and order.
Efforts Leading to Resolution
The signing of the peace pact was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the municipal governments of Lumbaca-Unayan and Marogong, as well as the "Kaisaisa Ko Kalilintad Program," a peace and conflict resolution initiative spearheaded by Pagayawan Mayor Mohammad Khalid Diamael and Vice Mayor Khalida Polao-Sanguila. This program specifically aims to address and peacefully resolve rido, or family feuds, and other community conflicts between the municipalities of Lumbaca-Unayan and Pagayawan. The settlement included traditional reconciliation rites, such as the giving of blood money, a customary practice designed to restore honor, promote accountability, and foster lasting peace between feuding parties.
Statements from Officials
Lieutenant Colonel Jerry Gaviola, commander of the 64IB, expressed gratitude to the local government units of Pagayawan, Lumbaca-Unayan, and Marogong for their strong leadership in promoting peace. He emphasized that family feuds have no place in a community striving for progress and stability. Gaviola assured that the 64IB fully supports all peace initiatives and continues to advocate for an end to rido in Lanao del Sur. He highlighted that the successful settlement underscores the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and unity, showcasing the strong commitment of local leaders, security forces, religious leaders, and the community to maintain peace and harmony throughout the province.
