MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – A long-standing tribal conflict locally known as “Maghat” between Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from Talaingod and San Fernando has been peacefully resolved following the continuation of an IP Settlement Agreement held on March 21, 2026, at the covered court of Barangay Namnam, San Fernando

In a statement, the 89th Infantry Battalion (89IB) said the reconciliation effort was spearheaded by San Fernando Mayor Rogelio C. Yeke, alongside Datu Jose Baon and Datu Andigao Agay, Municipal Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMR) of San Fernando and Talaingod, respectively. The activity aimed to restore harmony and strengthen unity among the affected communities.

Lt. Col. Antonio G. Bulao I, commanding officer of the 89IB, and Lt. Col. Jesus L. Rosete of the 60th Infantry Battalion emphasized the importance of sustaining peace and reaffirmed the Philippine Army’s commitment to supporting local peace-building initiatives.

“Taking a life is not a solution; achieving justice requires trust in the legal process,” said Capt. Jefte A. Abbe, also known as Datu Aguana, an IP leader and logistics officer of the 1003rd Infantry (Raptor) Brigade.

Also present were Police Capt. Ernie Cabrera, deputy chief of police of San Fernando; Barangay Captain Bogsi Anlas of Dagohoy, Talaingod; Barangay Captain Villaflor B. Nilo of Namnam; and tribal leaders from the barangays of Namnam, Halapitan, Magkalungay, Bunacao, and Kibongcog in San Fernando.

Tribal representatives from Palma Gil and Dagohoy in Talaingod likewise took part in the dialogue.

Through sustained discussions and mutual understanding, the gathering culminated in a peaceful settlement among the tribal leaders and their respective communities.

Earlier, on March 15, 2026, an initial settlement meeting was conducted in Sitio Natampod, Barangay Namnam, to address the conflict.

The 89IB noted that the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further disputes among Indigenous communities in the tri-boundary areas of Talaingod and Kapalong in Davao del Norte, and San Fernando in Bukidnon. (melbmadera)