Manila: The Army has successfully mediated a peace agreement between two commanders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, putting an end to a decade-long feud between clans in Maguindanao del Sur.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, the commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, confirmed that the rival factions have agreed to cease hostilities and resolve their territorial and personal disputes through diplomatic means in Ampatuan town. As a gesture of their commitment to peace, the commanders handed over high-powered firearms and vowed to refrain from future violence.

The commanders involved in the pact, Maki Dumpao and Datu Baks 'Sangki' Kindo, surrendered a total of nine high-powered firearms, including two homemade Barrett sniper rifles of caliber .50. They pledged on the Quran to uphold the peace agreement.

The last recorded clash between the warring families occurred on December 10 in Barangay Timbangan, Shariff Aguak. Brig. Gen. Catu emphasized that the Army stands ready to intervene should there be any recurrence of violence, prioritizing the protection of civilians.

Maj. Gen. Vladimir Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, commended the families for opting for peaceful dialogue over continued conflict.