Panglima estino: Two warring families from Panglima Estino, Sulu, have successfully signed a peace covenant, marking the end of a dispute that lasted over a year and resulted in the loss of two lives. This significant event followed the intervention and collaboration of the local community.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, the commander of the Army’s 1102nd Infantry Brigade, identified the conflicting families as those of Pajid Yusop Ubaidulla and Rasmin Asara. The reconciliation was celebrated as an act of true courage, with Delos Santos emphasizing that it demonstrates greater strength to forgive than to seek revenge.

The origin of the ‘rido’ or clan war between these two families dates back to a shooting incident on June 18, 2024, in Barangay Kan-Bulak, Luuk, which claimed the life of Nurikman Padjid. Further violence occurred on June 22 this year, when an ambush in Barangay Kan-Asaali, Panamao, resulted in the death of Asbi Mallah and injuries to two relatives of the Asara family.

The decision by the Ubaidulla and Asara families to sign the peace pact is seen as a pivotal moment for future generations, as stated by Delos Santos. He highlighted that this resolution could serve as a testament to the power of dialogue, local leadership, and community cooperation in overcoming even deep-seated disputes.

The peace covenant signing was witnessed by key local leaders and security officials in the second congressional district of Sulu, underscoring the importance of the agreement in fostering a peaceful future for the community.