Tunis:The warring Butbut Tribe of Tinglayan, Kalinga, and the Betwagan Tribe of Sadanga, Mountain Province, have decided to extend their ceasefire and establish a joint peace task force aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to their conflict.
According to Philippines News Agency, Andres Ngao-i, chairperson of the Matagoan Bodong Consultative Council (MBCC) and secretary general of the Kalinga Bodong Council, expressed hope that this initiative could end the ongoing tribal war. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in resolving the ancestral domain and boundary issues, which will be assessed by government agencies. The results will be presented to the tribal elders for their consideration.
The extended ceasefire is effective until February, providing time for the involved agencies to work on identifying the disputed boundaries. Regular monthly updates will be held to monitor progress and plan the subsequent steps by February 10. Ngao-i stated that resolving the boundary dispute between the two tribes could also clarify the municipal and provincial boundaries between Kalinga and Mountain Province, which remain undefined following the provinces' division.
During the ceasefire, tribal members are prohibited from entering the disputed territory or taking provocative actions. Ngao-i highlighted that the bodong, an indigenous peace pact, continues to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and settling disputes among the Indigenous communities. This traditional system was instrumental in the 1986 peace agreement, leading to the establishment of the Cordillera Administrative Region.
A joint task force has been created under Joint Executive Order No. 01-2026, which includes the 503rd, 103rd, and 102nd Infantry Battalions, along with the Kalinga and Mountain Province Police Provincial Offices as lead agencies. This task force, recognized by elders from both tribes, aims to facilitate reconciliation and prevent future conflicts.
Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr. praised the agreement as a significant step toward ensuring peace for current and future generations, underscoring the commitment of both tribes to maintaining harmonious communities.
