Maguindanao del sur: Maguindanao del Sur Governor Datu Ali Midtimbang has mediated a peace settlement between two warring families of Moro Islamic Liberation Front commanders. Midtimbang gathered the families of Sukarno Ampatuan and Patrick Omar at his office on Thursday, under his Mediation and Peace Dialogue program.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ampatuan heads the MILF’s 105th Base Command while Omar leads the 128th Base Command. Their groups had clashed intermittently in Rajah Buayan town over the past five years, resulting in casualties and property damage.

Midtimbang urged the families to “forget your dispute over territorial areas” and emphasized working for peace for the future generations. He expressed satisfaction with the families’ decision to pursue a peaceful settlement.

Both sides have agreed to refrain from violence, aiming to demonstrate that peace is achievable in their communities. The settlement was facilitated by Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, and Rajah Buayan Mayor Bai Maruja Ampatuan Mastura.

Catu warned the families that military intervention would occur if hostilities resumed.