THE military has taken steps to end a “rido” or clan war between two commanders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Maguindanao.
Maj. Gen. Roy Galido, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said he has ordered his men to coordinate with the local police to activate mechanisms on how to address the conflict.
Galido also said the military has also coordinated with members of the MILF and the Government Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities “to conciliate the situation.”
“I call on everyone involved in a clan war or family feud to end this rido because I believe there is nothing good that the rido can bring to us but the continued struggle of families over racial depletion without obtaining justice,”said Galido.
The rido is between the families of MILF commanders Bugdad Matalam Akas and Walid Mamasamlang, in Pikit town in Cotabato.
Lt. Col. Dennis Almorato, 6th ID spokesman, said the clan war started last month and have been involved in clashes from time to time.
“It (problem) runs deep,” said Almorato of the rido. “There’s still a lot of work that needs to be done (before the rido will be settled), maybe even payment of blood money,” he added.
The last fighting between the two groups took place last Thursday when Galido assumed as 6th ID commander. Galido took the helm of the 6th ID from Maj. Gen. Roberto Capulong who was named the Army chief of staff.
Three people from Walid’s side died in the clash, identified as Ronie Dilanalan, Mama Dilanalan, and Makron Baguinda. One was injured on Aklas’ side, identified only alias Alinor.
A civilian, Lito Quiñones, died while another, Ronaldo Mercado, was injured after they were caught in the crossfire.
