Preventing Ri Do
Preventing Ri Do
Preventing Ri Do
A n d o t h er
l i c e a
for the Po eacekeepers
C o m m u n i t y P
A Publication of the Philippine National Police and The Asia Foundation
Supported by Australian Aid
acknowledgments
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without permission in writing
from the publisher. Inquiries should be addressed to The Asia Foundation at email tafphil@
asiafound.org. We are truly grateful to the following organizations and people for their vital contribution to this
endeavor to upgrade PNP capabilities on conIOict resolution:
This product is made possible by the generous support of the Australian Government. The
contents are the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reIOect the views of the
Australian Government or The Asia Foundation. The Asia Foundation (TAF) and the Australian Government Aid Program for their technical and
funding assistance.
About The Asia Foundation
The PNP Directorates which reviewed the contents and format of this book:
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Directorate for Human Resource and Doctrine Development
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"()&-/#*&""" +#"#!* #$!"(+#!"'!$#+&!"("*&#"!"( Directorate for Intelligence
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&!#"(+-'+"#)&''#"(")* #$!"('$) )'("(&*" Directorate for Police Community Relations
&#"#(+#& PNP Training Service
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Salaam Police Center
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#&"+($) "$&*($&("&'(#)"(#"
&*')""&#!*&'&#)$# (& "!) ( (& * #$!"("'#)"(#"' The police ofILcers who have shared their cases and provided insights on their rido experience in
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&($&#&!')$$#&("'(&)((,(##'"#(&)(#" !(& '* )(#*& ! #" the ILeld:
PSSUPT Debold Sinas
Editorial Team:
And to Congressman Leopoldo Bataoil of the 2nd District of Pangasinan and member of the
PDIR Lina C. Sarmiento
PCSUPT Victor P. Deona House Committee on Peace and Reconciliation, for always upholding innovation in the PNP.
PSSUPT Benigno B. Durana, Jr
PSSUPT Benedicto Lopez
On behalf of the people of Mindanao and the Filipino nation, and the 148,000-strong PNP
PSSUPT Nickson Muksan across the archipelago, we thank you ALL for your investment of time, trust, capable
PCINSP Joseph Lofranco
Dr Cecilia Noble assistance and wisdom.
Wilfredo Magno Torres III
Nadine Siriban-Ragonjan
Hamidullah Atar -The Editorial Board and Staff
Henry Martin
Jeremy Dellosa
Policing in the 21st century demands from our policemen among others, not only the knowledge I have been Chief of Police of Cotabato City and have encountered the thorny problem of rido or
in law enforcement and crime fighting, but also the ability to be peacemakers as well, especially clan-feuding. The experience of having comrades fall in the field because of the conflict of a few
in the communities where they serve. It is important for every Police Officer to undertake has haunted me forever. Some have been unwittingly victimized while some blindly followed
intercultural education and capacity building in order to gain more knowledge, shed long- held and ignored consequences. Indeed, police officers have to be educated on the complexities of
biases and improve their skills thus, becoming highly competent conflict managers. This book rido and be trained how to address conflicts that takes into consideration political, religious and
is our reference toward that end. cultural sensitivities.
As the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
move forward in giving substance to the Framework Agreement on the peace process that the I gladly welcome this important achievement of developing a handbook on rido that is for the
parties have signed on October 15, 2012, we encourage our police officers to take the high road specific use of the police and from it learn how to engage other community peacekeepers. I
by actively resolving conflicts in their communities in Mindanao. If we can prevent the clan- enjoin all police officers to read this handbook and pass on the knowledge to others. I further
based conflicts from going out of hand and intersecting with more violent forces, we can help guarantee that serious reading and heart-felt understanding of the concepts will serve multiple
ensure that all parties concerned remain in the path towards peace, reconciliation and unity. “Ang purposes in operations, intelligence, investigation and PCR work. Learn how to document your
problema ng rido ay hindi dapat ipinagwawalang-bahala, sa halip ay hinaharap nang may own experiences and share best practices to others. We all can learn from each other.
malalim at makatotohanang pang-unawa at tunay na pagmamalasakit.”
Bear in mind that those who never stop learning, never stop improving!
We are grateful to The Asia Foundation, the Australian International Agency for Development
and Lingkod Bayani Network for their support to this publication.
Mabuhay at itaguyod po natin ang kapayapaan sa ating sambayanan!
“Para sa serbisyong makatotohan na nagsusulong ng kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa Mindanao
at sa buong sambayanang Pilipino.” Ang
g inyong
y g Lingkod
g ng
g Bayan,
y ,
LEOPOLDO
L OPOLDO N. BATAOIL
LE BAATAOIL
ALAN
AL
LAN N LA A MADRID PURISIMA
Representative,
tative
ve,
e 2nd District of Pang
Pangasinan
n asinan
Director
Police D General
irector Gene
onveno
Lead Convenor,or,
rL inngk
g od B
Lingkod ayyan
a i Network
Bayani
Chief,
Chie
ef, PNP
f P NP
table of contents
Acknowledgments
Foreword Chief PNP Alan La Madrid Purisima
Message Honorable Leopoldo N Bataoil
Chapter I | Introduction ................................................................03 Scenario #2: What if you are approached by two families who are
both your friends?
Case #2: The Neutral Stance ....................................................... 58
Chapter II | What is Rido? .............................................................08 Scenario #3: What if you are a police officer who has rido in
What makes rido a very serious peace and order problem? your own family?
Definition, causes, aggravating factors and implications Case #3: The Rido between the Muksan and Sahidullah Clans . 60
How is rido resolved? Clan conflict resolution and its cultural Scenario #4: How do you intervene if you are a Police Officer
considerations ................................................................12 and an Imam at the same time?
Case #4: Reflections of an Imam and Police Officer ................... 65
Case #5: Rido and the Response of the Cotabato
Chapter III | Understanding Conflict ..............................................22 Provincial Police Office ......................................... 68
What is conflict? Types, elements, violent conflict
How must you handle conflict: Life Cycle of Conflict, Conflict
Management concepts and skills Chapter VI | Case Studies..............................................................70
Scenario #5: What if you are asked to resolve a land dispute case?
Case #6. Kandori for Land Dispute Resolution ............................ 72
Chapter IV | Rido Prevention and Resolution Toolkit......................30 Scenario #6: How does slander hurt a Maranaoan’s maratabat (pride
Tool #1 – Rido Conflict Life Cycle Framework: How do you approach and honor)?
the different stages of the conflict and what tools should Case #6: Slander.......................................................................... 76
you use? When and How? ............................................ 31 Scenario #8: How do you engage the youth in conflict resolution?
Tool #2 – Conflict Mapping: How many conflicts are there and Case #8. Rido Resolution Involving the Youth and the Police ...... 78
how do you prioritize? ............................................. 34 Scenario #9: How do you use salsillah or genealogies to
Tool #3 – Political Mapping: How do you contextualize settle a rido? ...................................................... 80
the problem? ........................................................ 39 Case #9. Rido conflict resolution through Salsillah or
Tool #4 – Mediation: How do you confront feuding parties and offer Genealogies
win-win solution? .......................................................... 41
Rido (as the Maranaos refer to it) or clan wars have a variety of names: Tausugs call it
pagbanta while Tagalogs refer to it as ubusan ng lahi. Although the different groups
use different names, all have the same tragic end – the extra-judicial use of violence
that seeks blood and revenge.
Rido has caused much death and destruction and retarded economic, political, and
social development of the comsunities affected by it. The most affected are the
young who are raised into a life of violence and conflict.
As peacekeepers, policemen and policewomen have a duty to uphold the law. Most
of them however, would admit they tend not to intervene with feuding clans,
mediating only occasionally when rido reaches a critical point that affects the entire
community and those adjoining it. History has shown that when left unchecked
rido could result in decades of violence, criminality and collateral damage to property
and innocent bystanders. This phenomenon is not limited to Mindanao, but
because of the Moro conflict in the southern island, the dramatic and far-reaching
outcomes of rido are more emphasized. There is, in fact, evidence of a linkage
between rido and the Moro separatist rebellions of the 1970s and the late 1990s.
Left unchecked, rido can be a major catalyst for the spread of lawlessness in many
localities that will lead to, among other things, unnecessary police and civilian
fatalities. One example of the former is the tragic story of Maguindanaoan
Police Senior Inspector (PSI) “Elias”, who saw in his police career a promising path
away from poverty and violence. After graduating from the Philippine National
Police Academy, PSI Elias quickly petitioned for an assignment in his hometown
with high hopes of reform and a zealous spirit of transformation. That was
until November 23, 2009 when he became one of the hundreds of policemen
unwittingly used by the warring Mangudadatu and Ampatuan families in their
Given the fateful events of the “Maguindanao Massacre”, and the momentum that
was initiated by the 2012 Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, the Philippine
National Police prescribes this handbook to all police officers so that they are
better equipped to perform their role as law enforcers and, more importantly, as
! Rido has wider implications for
conflict in Mindanao primarily because
peace builders. of the tendency for it to interact in
unfortunate ways with separatist conflict
and other forms of armed violence.
"
4 A Practical Guide for the Police & other Community Peacekeepers 5
CHAPTER II | What is Rido?
Rido, or feuding between families and clans, is a type of conflict characterized by !"#9)%%"$%KQ),%B)("',.)( DM L>P=
sporadic outbursts of retaliatory violence between families and kinship groups as
well as between communities. It can occur in areas where government or a central 7)N1 D< L>E<
authority is weak and in areas where there is a perceived lack of justice and security.
T'(8$)(( DD L>;=
As the terms from other dialects indicate, rido is not simply a Muslim Filipino
phenomenon. Clan feuds have been observed in Muslim, non-Muslim, and O8(."$6'.1 DL L>CE
heterogeneously populated areas.
J&#N@8$G P L>CD
Rido occurs mainly in areas where the local government or the central authority is
weak. These are also the same areas characterized by a pervasive lack of justice and +@/%+)'6 E L>=M
security. In some instances therefore warring groups could include political rivals.
U86$&9%*",%B&$("# E L>=M
Table 1. Causes of rido
F#N'(S = L>:M
!,8#)%FG&8$(1%H"#)$%I%J)$6),AB)@&1)6%K%)$()( DED D<>:D There are a variety of stimuli associated with rido as shown in Table 1. However,
these are stimuli which, when aimed deliberately or accidentally at a rival family /
7,'G%B)@&1)6 :L <>LM kinship / clan / ethnic group and there is a perceived lack of justice, result in rido.
Land disputes, political power, and gender-related offenses were leading stimuli of
F..86)$1( <M D>C: rido and together accounted for over 55% of total incidents in 2012.
!&,&N&"%I%!&%@)%B'(1@8$G << D>=
Montillo-Burton et al further describe some of the general categories of stimuli
O&,,8&G)%I%?@"9)#)$1 <L D>:C listed in Table 1 in the following ways:
D>% Land disputes (25% of all incidents in 2012) typically occur be-
J,'6G) DP D><P
cause of a lack of documentation (unmarked property boundaries, wills,
F..'(&%"$ DE D><< deeds or land titles). The usurpation by rich heirs over land or encroach-
ment stimulates rido.
=>% Graft and corruption (less than 1%) cases which primarily center
on the malversation of public funds particularly from the Internal Revenue
Allotment (IRA) of local governments.
Figure 1
7. Maratabat-related (less than 1%) cases ranging from displays DAMAY-DAMAY NA
of superiority complex and arrogance (kibr), the domination of one party
over another, a lack of regard for others, enmity, envy or jealousy, and of- Aggravating factors and Implications of Rido on Peace
fenses to honor.1 Rido tied to these activities are often, though not exclu- in Mindanao
sive, to adherents of Islam, and can be between religious groups.
Clan conflicts are seldom confined to one area. Often, families involved in feuds
8. Ignorance or disregard of ethics and religious law (less than can call on their relatives in other places for assistance, and in most instances, to
1%). Again rido tied to these activities are often, though not exclusive, to provide the necessary muscle in the ongoing feud. Due to the proliferation of
adherents of Islam, and can be between religious groups. firearms in the communities, minor arguments can lead to murder. Other kin can
also exacerbate the already problematic situation through their words and actions.
Further, the slow response and/or failure of the local police to solve criminal cases
1 An expanded meaning of the Arabic word maratabat (or pride in lineage) which also means to the satisfaction of the aggrieved party can also lead to retaliation. It gets worse
“rank to rank sensitivity; status to status seeking; and prestige to prestige enhancement (Matuan, 2004).
when authorities are perceived to be taking sides.
It is anchored on a belief that family interest and honor should be rst which often serves as an ideology
that guides an action of a citizen in community. Thus demeaning a person’s maratabat (or family honor or
pride in a very loose de nition) is the most rampant single known cause of rido among the Maranaos. The In general, rido is aggravated by alliances formed by principals with other families
retaliatory nature of rido and the observance of maratabat go hand and hand. It is part of the observance
of the social structure and the social positions of the Maranao culture. A person ghting for his marata- and armed groups. Rido is also escalated when the hostilities interact with social
bat can only be stopped if a local government chief, religious leader or a law enforcer intervenes. This problems like banditry and, more importantly, with the conflict between the MNLF
intervention allows him to stop retaliatory attacks without losing face for not avenging the insult on his
maratabat. Respect for authority is considered honorable and is a gesture that is acceptable within the and the MILF at one end and the government at the other.
maratabat culture.
• Expression to settle voluntarily. Both parties express their consent to achieve Operationally, clan organizing is a tedious task. It requires the understanding of
reconciliation between their families and relatives and forget everything and support from family, members and clan leaders. Activities include identification
related to the conflict. of potential family and clan leaders, skills enhancement, monitoring work,
strengthening relationships, establishing linkages and networking, transfer of
• Cost of the settlement. The amount of blood money involved in the settlement knowledge and skills, recognizing grassroots sentiments, systematizing traditional
may be indicated. Other forms of compensation and arrangements are leadership and Salsilah-making.
Based on RIDO, Inc. experience, an average clan that it has organized has about
80,000 individual family members. Salsillah or genealogy-tracing begins with
identifying potential leaders who are influential in conflict resolution and other
peace interventions in Lanao. They are engaged in research and development of
clan profiles. They assist in the conduct of interviews because people generally
trust them and disclose information through them. The collated data are validated
several times over with representatives from the elders of each clan to ensure
genuine affiliation. When rido conflicts arise, these data bases are consulted to
see if the feuding parties are blood-related. When information on blood relations
are presented to the concerned parties, they become sober and open-minded.
Feuding families are then informed and constantly reminded that they are blood-
related and therefore they should not fight each other because they are not only
harming one family. Instead they should be working together to build the family
for future generations.
Overall, these are the more common traditional methods used in settling clan-
feuds. They help ensure a “win-win” solution for all parties involved in a rido
where mediators play important roles for their success. In most Moro cultures,
the more effective mediators are neutral families, called sukudan, who are
connected to both parties. The traditional or local leaders in the community
are also effective depending on the degree of their integrity and personal
background.
Conflict is defined as a clash between individuals arising out of a difference in thought What are the elements of conflict to consider?
processes, attitudes, understanding, interests, requirements and even sometimes
perceptions. A conflict results in heated arguments, physical abuses and definitely loss D>% The substantive issues in contention or the interests at stake like natural
of peace and harmony. resource competition, government control, territorial control, avenging
tarnished honor.
What is violent conflict? <>% Parties involved: ethnic and religious groups, regional communities,
governments, political factions.
This publication concerns itself with violent conflict which can lead to harmful :>% Types of coercion used: gross human rights violations, harassment
consequences and the best example of which is rido. M>% Geographic scope or arena of the violence and destruction
=>% Stage the conflict is in and the influential actors who can tip the balance,
Violent conflict is associated with actions, words, attitudes, structures or systems make the parties listen to and help resolve it
that cause physical, psychological, social or environmental damage. Conflicts
become violent when parties try to dominate or destroy the opposing parties’ What factors can bring about crisis in a conflict situation?
ability to pursue their own interests. These interests may be over resources (land,
money), power (electoral position), identity, status, values (ideology), etc. These D>% The intensity and number of grievances.
are the common problems in violent conflicts surrounding rido. <>% The parties’ awareness of their differences; perceptions and attitudes
towards each other.
Figure 1. Conflict Life-Cycle and Ways of Resolving Conflict :>% The intensity of the emotional and psychological investment by the
parties on the conflict.
M>% The amount of direct interaction and communication between the
parties involved in the conflict.
=>% The level of political mobilization and organizational capacities of the
parties involved in the conflict.
C>% The strength of the unity between the respective parties’ leaders and
their constituencies.
!
conflicting motives or ideologies to the rest of the group (e.g., intentions;
Understanding where a conflict reasons for holding certain beliefs), and by engaging in collective negotiation.
[1] Ultimately, a wide range of methods and procedures for addressing
falls in the cycle is essential to conflict exist, including but not limited to, negotiation, mediation, diplomacy,
and creative peacebuilding.
developing effective strategies for
intervention, crisis management, and
Conflict management plays a very important role in preventing hostilities among
for controlling violence. It is also individuals. How does a conflict arise? When individuals strongly oppose each
other’s opinions and ideas, the probability of a conflict arises. A conflict starts
critical to determining the best timing when individuals think on different lines and find it very difficult to accept each
"
other’s ideas. Conflict must be avoided as it destroys the peace, lowers the
of those strategies (Lund, 1996).” productivity as well as demotivates the individuals. All the factors leading to
a fight must be explored and efforts must be made to prevent a conflict from
developing. A conflict is not very easy to control; an individual needs certain
skills to deal with it effectively and efficiently.
Make the other person understand if he is wrong. Do not criticize openly as it would
2 | Listening Skills
definitely hurt people’s pride and sentiments. The other person might not be as
We have two ears and one mouth, so that we would listen more and speak less. An intelligent as you are, but you have no right to make fun of him. Others will look up
individual must not give his expert opinion until and unless he is very clear what to you if you guide the other person well and make him realize his mistakes.
the other person wants. Always be a good listener. Don’t just jump to conclusions
and assume things on your own. Always listen to the other side of the story as well.
7 | Positive Attitude
3 | Discussion
Positive attitude is essential to avoid fights and conflicts. In offices, never ever play
Do not follow the rumor mills blindly and never discuss conflict issue with others the blame game. No one is perfect and if you have done anything wrong, have the
just for the sake of making conversations. Only those with direct participation in courage to accept it. Human beings are bound to make mistakes but never try to
the conflict should be part of the discussion. Involved participants must give their put the blame on anyone else’s shoulders. Avoid backbiting as it only spoils the
inputs and efforts must be made to find out an alternative. Consult the members relationships. If you don’t agree with anyone’s views, discuss with him personally,
involved and never ignore anyone as it would never solve the problem. Everyone he will like it. Don’t always find faults in others and be a little more adjusting as life
has a right to express his views and a middle way has to be found. is all about adjustments.
4 | Patience
One needs to be very patient to avoid conflicts. There would be people at your
workplace and even home who would try to provoke you to fight. Never ever be
28
Chapter IV | Rido Prevention Tool Kit Application - Let us apply the tools to rido conflicts.
MORE TOOLS a. What is the conflict’s main trigger(s)? What caused or initiated the conflict
It is important to know your area of responsibility (AOR) and the communities in the community?
under it that have had rido. We must do a careful conflict analysis of each rido
case using conflict mapping and political mapping. These tools help assess and b. What are the root causes of, or underlying factors behind the conflict?
prioritize which rido to engage first and how to deal with it more effectively. The
tools also help in gathering allies in the community and in determining ways and c. What factors sustain the conflict?
the proper timing in engaging them in conflict.
d. Were there similar conflicts that happened in the past that may be related
Tool # 2 - Conflict Mapping to the current one?
Conflicts are dynamic systems and any intervention to resolve it becomes a part of
the system. So we should make sure that this is creative and elicits positive energies. e. Did the conflict catalyze or worsen other conflicts?
To do conflict analysis, we therefore must focus on: 1) verifying if we are dealing
with a conflict or several conflicts; 2) determining the conflict system boundaries 3. The Main Actors/ Parties in the Conflict
with the option of revising these later on; 3) then using conflict analysis tools (see
below) to focus on certain aspects of the conflict and organize the information a. Who are the main actors and/or parties involved in the conflict? What
necessary for its resolution. interests do they represent?
Some recommended steps on mapping conflict in your area. b. Who are these actors’/parties’ allies? What are these allies’ relationships to
the main protagonists? What are their interests?
1. Initial assessment of the conflict or situation
a. The incident/event/situation itself (flare ups, atrocities, inflammatory c. What are the possible “soft spots” of the contending actors or areas where
rumors, threats to communities, etc.) they would most likely cooperate because it is important to them?
e. Who are the possible people to approach toward engaging and possibly f. Is there policy conflict even at the local level like disagreements over the
resolving this conflict? Who are the right people to approach in gaining clarity recent GPH, MILF, and MNLF. Framework of Agreement?
about the conflict, in strategizing interventions, and in resolving the conflict?
g. Can responding teams access the conflict-affected areas or conflicting
4. The importance of generating accurate and timely information (Standard parties? What is the stage of the conflict? Is the conflict at the outset,
Operating Procedures for Assessing Information) escalating, stalemated, denouement, or in termination phase? Is the
conflict active/ongoing, latent, or recurring? What are the risks involved?
a. Who/what are the sources of information regarding the incident?
6. Basic questions relating to context which may not be answered
b. How was the information gathered? immediately but which the police and partners must note as they
conduct their interventions
c. Can we verify the incident from other sources (civil society partners, local
politicians or existing contacts in the area including security forces)? a. Who are the most powerful/ influential actors in the area?
d. Are there media reportage (on-line or not) on the conflict? b. Which actors are marginalized or excluded from local power?
e. Can we then triangulate these various sources of information with the data c. Do competing elite groups exist at the local level (e.g., an MNLF or MILF
we gathered in the field to come up with a clearer picture? unit in a locality controlled by one family)?
5. Determining the type of Conflict d. Describe the political networks of each elite faction. Is it based mainly on
family or clan relations? Or is it based on ethnicity or religion? What other
a. Is it connected to, affected by or has a role in the separatist and/or insurgent affiliations bind these factions together?
violence in your area of operation?
e. How stable are the political networks in the area? Do actors move between
b. Is the conflict caused by the rivalries between political and economic elites? patrons, or are the networks relatively fixed?
c. Is the conflict local or community-based, and is it over access, control and f. What role does government or military/police play in local power dynamics?
use of resources?
7. Actors and/or teams responding to the conflict
d. Is the conflict related to criminal activities like drug-trafficking, arms
trading, narco-politics, extortion, kidnapping for ransom, illegal logging, a. Are partners in the position to intervene? Do they have the capacity to
smuggling, human trafficking and illegal gambling? intervene and make the situation better? Are they willing to work with
c. Is there a clear expression of interest/ intent by the actors and sectors to be e. Is mitigation even possible? How do the responding teams propose to
involved in the conflict mitigation process? Do they understand the risks mitigate these risks? What are the avenues for conflict resolution outlined
and are they willing to engage the conflict despite the risks? by the responding team?
d. Is there a local champion or local champions from either or both sides or Inherent to the success of the rapid response program is a process that is systematic,
coming from members of the community, who are willing to be involved transparent, and inclusive where all voices of stakeholders are heard and given due
in solving the conflict? Are these champions considered neutral and/or consideration. But while we recognize the importance of inclusivity, we only involve
are well respected by parties concerned? key actors at the appropriate stage of the conflict resolution process.
8. Peace promoting factors. In cases where women are involved or are part of the conflict, the following points
must be considered: the interventions must always be gender sensitive and
a. What are the events, activities and practices that can bring together consider the welfare of women. In cases where there is sexual abuse, the intervention
people involved in conflict? What peace resources and mechanisms are must give justice, answer the needs of, and provide resolution to complaints of the
available in the community that can be used? aggrieved party (especially women/ girls)?
b. Are there humanitarian groups, development agencies and emergency To date, the most effective interventions have been concerted efforts that draw
response teams in the area and are they capable of dealing with conflict support from different key stakeholders to form a convergence of actors and
situations? initiatives (multi-sectoral engagements and multidisciplinary teams) that address
flare-ups or brewing conflicts.
9. Interventions to mitigate or resolve the conflict
a. Are there plans already laid out to de-escalate conflict and promote Tool #3 - Political Mapping
reconciliation? Who will lead the “intervention”? Why? In order to do a good political map it is essential to gather first your facts. Here is a
quick list of the information that you need about your AOR.
b. If there are no existing plans, how fast can the government (military, · Basic info on Municipality/ Barangays covered by the AOR
police and civilians) craft one together with other stakeholders and other o the overall population
influential players in the community? How fast can such plan be conceived o percentage of Muslims, Christians and Lumad in the AOR
and then implemented? o the kinds of conflicts in the AOR
o the presence of AFP/ PNP units in the AOR
After you have all the information that you need about your AOR, you
can now map out its political context. To assess local political dynamics, it
is important to begin with a simple political mapping of each barangay. In this
handbook, we use a graphic representation of local networks and relationships
between local actors, using an adaptation from a Venn or chapatti diagram.
The objective is to document the political actors and groups in the community and
map out their relationship with each other:
Figure 3
Tool # 4 - Mediation
How to do a political map? Mediation is a process in which a third party intervenes in a conflict, with the
1. Identify the main political actors and groups in the community, including consent of the parties in conflict. The aim is to facilitate a mutually acceptable
elites and non-elites; resolution. It is a facilitated collaborative problem-solving (Gregory Tillett, Resolving
2. Indicate the relative power or influence of various actors and groups. Conflict). Mediation works purely for facilitation purposes. The mediator plays no
3. Illustrate the political networks and rivalries at this level by indicating advisory role. Instead, he/she helps the parties develop a shared understanding of
the relationships between actors and/or groups – specifically whether the conflict and to work toward building a practical and lasting resolution. Finally
they are allies or rivals, and whether there are overlaps between different this approach encourages conflicting parties to focus on their interests, not on
groups (i.e., that some individuals are in two different groups) positions, because “behind opposed positions lie shared and compatible interests,
as well as, conflicting ones” (Fisher & Uy, 1991).
The diagram below is a model of what the map can look like at the barangay level, Principles of Mediation
which is the primary stage where community-based projects are implemented. Intervention – exerting effort to come between contending persons or groups for
However, the relationship between the municipal (particularly the mayor) and the purpose of helping them.
barangay officials is extremely important. For this reason, the diagram will need Acceptability – refers to the willingness of the disputants to allow a third party to
to include the relationships between the key actors at the municipal level with the assist them in reaching a resolution.
barangay actors. Impartiality and neutrality – the attitude or behavior of the ones intervening.
They will have no authoritative decision-making power except to facilitate.
An honest recognition that rido is a police problem is the first crucial step to a police The following are the suggested steps on community organizing and social
station's meaningful engagement with the conflict. Policemen and policewomen investigation:
have to overcome the idea that rido is merely a “family-thing” and therefore does not
require police intervention. But more than this “excuse,” policemen and policewomen, 1. Gathering and reviewing secondary data sources such as records and
especially at the localities, must not be affected by the fear of retaliation by either documents. For the police, the initial place to start are the files available in
parties against their families. “Staying out of trouble” by not intervening into rido the police station such as the police blotter and cases filed in court.
goes against the very essence of proactive conflict management. Playing it safe is a
false notion because no one is really safe when rido lurks around. 2. Holding personal interviews especially of key informants. This should be
non-threatening and not take the form of police investigation. Simple
The best defense against rido is to go on the offensive, seeking out conflicts and positively conversations with questions in mind would serve the purpose of getting
engaging these through a combination of traditional and modern techniques. important facts.
Scenario 1 3. Conducting a survey of the place through a deliberate effort to observe the
What if you are new in the area and it is your first time to people and their environment. Prepare a guide to record your observations
encounter rido? to include physical, economic, socio-political, and cultural aspects of the
community. Since this a confl ict management task, list your observations of
Tools/activities you can use. Community Organizing and Social Investigation the families involved in the confl ict and keep them updated.
Rationale: Conflict occurs involving community members, hence it is important to In community organizing, social investigation is complemented with community
know about the community and its elements that interact with conflict. Community integration, which is accomplished by living with the people and sharing the
organizing and social investigation are complementary tools that cut across the life same experience with them. In Tagalog, this is what is popularly known as
cycle of the conflict and considered as useful tools in confl ict management. pakikisalamuha at pakikisama sa mga tao. Among members of the PNP, pakikisama
is advised with caution as it could be misinterpreted and abused. Hindi dapat
Community organizing is a problem solving approach whereby the community is makisama at “makisama” or partake of bad or illegal ways or “Sa pamamagitan ng
empowered with the knowledge and skills to identify and prioritize its needs, and pakikisalamuha mas lalung makikilala ng pulis ang mga tao at mauunawaan ang
problems. The community organizer (CO) facilitates the process of participative kanilang mga problema. Maaring makilahok sa kanilang mga livelihood activities o
action and harnessing resources to deal with the problems and its related issues. mga hanapbuhay sa bukid, tumulong sa mga pagtatayong bahay o mga bayanihan.
Maaari din dumalo sa mga social events at sumali sa mga sports activities. Maraming
As a community organizer, it is important for the police or the peacekeeper to adapt paraan, subalit dapat lamang tandaan na di ito dahilan upang sumali sa mga di
a lifestyle and personality that is in keeping with the community. Keep a low profile. kanais-nais na gawain tulad ng “inuman” o paglalasing, pagsusugal at iba pang bisyo.”
When talking about programs and your effort toward peace building, avoid raising
people’s expectations. Be honest and sincere. Share your knowledge and experience After a period of social investigation and writing what he/she has observed, the
to the people with the objective of drawing in their trust, inputs and participation. community organizer-peacekeeper in the police station is now equipped with
Social investigation as a part of the conflict management process is a continuing community data that he can use for conflict management. This should be kept as
activity of getting to know the members of the community and their situation. It part of the important records of the police station and used as reference to aid
takes particular focus on those affected by the conflict. police work. Simple lang, di ba?
• Pushing your way. When you push and push for your point
of view and show little interest in considering someone else’s,
you only increase the volume of debate, which drowns out any
prospects of settling the debate.
Case Number 2 | The Neutral Stance Although the legal courts of the land also have jurisdiction in this matter, the
locals find the use of historical, religious and cultural court as forum for justice
Five years after he graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), a to be faster and far ranging when it comes to solving rido.
young police senior inspector (captain) became the Group Commander of the
Regional Mobile Group in a major city in Mindanao with huge trading activities The PNP officer also turned down the generous offer of money as protection
coming out of the Philippine backdoor. He had the support of the Marines and for one party to inflict violence on another. He knew that asking for money or
the Navy officers based in the city. He also had the support of the politicians even taking money is a big no-no among the locals and would forever besmirch
who appointed him to the position. He was one of the favored sons of the PNP, his reputation among the locals.
until he was forced to settle a rido.
“There is no sense in asking for favors. Kung nakita ka nung isang pamilya na
The local politician who needed the votes of both families would not interfere in humihingi ng tulong sa iyo yung kalaban nila, hihingi din yung isa ng tulong
the conflict. The importers and exporters who knew how damaging a rido can sa iyo. Kung hindi mo mapagbigyan sila magagalit sila sa iyo.” He reasoned.
be to local business could not offer their support, too. The military could not “Ang masama niyan ay kung malaman nung nauna na lumapit sa iyo yung
also intervene as well, hence, the burden rested on the Chief of Police. kalaban nila. Eh di parehas mo na silang kalaban at kahit ayaw mo nakakasama
ka na sa rido” He also deliberately did not talk about faith in this matter. A
Faced with the temptation of siding with one party who solicited his help, person of another faith who would probably look down on the faith of another
offered him luxurious gifts and promised him power and control beyond his would not be particularly effective in such case. Being neutral requires not
wildest imagination, the PNP officer was close to taking the “easy way”. But taking sides on the religious aspect of rido.
the law required him to be neutral. Out of duty, he obligingly did. “Kailangan
mo talagang gumitna and huwag ng makisali sa kanilang gulo.” The young After just three months, the rido was mediated after the council of elders
officer resolved. decided the case among themselves. The PNP officer, who took the neutral
stance and was admired by both parties, was even invited to the Kanduli
In deciding not to side with anyone, he then referred the case to the elders (thanksgiving feast) to mark the end of the rido.
(Asatidz and Imams) of the clan with whom the two families were associated.
He knew that every ethnic group of Mindanaons subscribe to their religious Reflections:
(Shariah) courts. Why is it important to take a neutral stance when it concerns solving
clan wars?
“May mga sarili silang court structures sa kanilang kultura na sinusunod. Is it important to trust the local community council of a locality, even
Marami sa mga taga-Mindanao ang ayaw sa karahasan. Kaya marami ang though you are a foreigner in the land?
gumagawa ng paraan para maayos ang mga kaso lalong lalo na kung rido What is the value of the religious courts?
Muksan and Sahidullah peace covenant signing event at the Garden Orchids in Zamboanga City last June 22, 2012.
Mayor Sahidullah, on his part, said that since they are the younger and In your own experience, is it worthy to pursue an old transgression?
educated generation of their clans who bore the brunt of the rido, they now
wanted to stop it so that both clans could live and work peacefully.
Scenario 4:
“It is very significant in our family because at last we will settle our differences How do you intervene if you are a Police Officer and Imam at
after 31 years.” Sahidullah added in a news interview. the same time?
After finishing the peace negotiations for the conditions of the accord, both
parties ended the blood feud without any monetary considerations. Case Number | 4 The Reflections of an Imam and an Officer
A vital element in the resolution of the Sahidullah-Muksan rido which lasted for
more than 20 years is PSSUPT Muksan’s professionalism as a police officer. “And Mohammad (PBUH) recited to them the story of the two sons of Adam
Muksan believes that any policeman especially the ground commanders could (Abel and Cain) and in truth; when each offered a sacrifice, it was accepted
help further diminish the occurrence of rido or even solve it. from one but not from the other. The latter said to the former. “I will surely kill
you.” The former said: Verily Allah accepts only from those who are pious. If
Hence, PSSUPT Muksan has the following advice for police officers confronting you do stretch your hand against me to kill me, I shall never stretch my hand
rido problems: First, identify the warring clans within their locale and they against you to kill you: for I fear Allah, the Lord of all mankind.”
should not be afraid of or intimidated by the parties involved. Second, they - The Qur’an (Surah Al-Ma’idah : 27-28)
2. What are the principles of Islam that are applicable in solving a rido case? To address the challenges of solving rido cases, Cotabato PPO took more
deliberate steps. It launched Task Force Manhunt to arrest persons with
3. What does it mean for a policeman to be “God-Centered”? standing Warrants of Arrests. In the first 100 days of operation alone, the
Task Force arrested 273 wanted persons. In 1999, it organized and launched
its Mounted Police in Arakan just to provide police service to indigenous
people living even in the remotest barangays of the municipality.
Case Number 5 | Rido and the Response of the Cotabato
Provincial Police Office The Provincial Director also organized a Special Investigation Group (SIG)
that factored in religious and cultural sensitivities in their work. Through this,
“Kung mag-rido ka, ikaw ang magkakaroon ng kaso at hahabulin ng buong the PNP endeavored to assure impartiality, sincerity and focus to ensure
pwersa ng kapulisan. Kung mag-file ka ng kaso, ang buong kapulisan ang concrete results. The SIG had several teams and among which are the SIG-
hahabol sa iyong kalaban at wala ka pa’ng uutanging buhay o dugo (blood Muslim Desk Team and the SIG- Heinous/Sensational Crimes Team. The
debt). Sa ganito’ng paraan maiingatan mo pa ang iyong pamilya. Hindi SIG-Muslim Desk Team is headed by a Muslim officer and whose members
ninyo kailangan masaktan o manakit ng iba.” This was the message of PDIR include at least one Muslim and one Christian investigator. It handles specific
Alex Paul Monteagudo when was Director of Cotabato Provincial Police cases where the victim is a Muslim and the suspect is Christian. The SIG
Office (PPO). also functions as a Coordinating Center for crime investigation and it
maintains a computerized database of criminals and crime incidents. This
INJUSTICE! This has been the perennial outcry of the people of Mindanao, became centralized database for all investigators of the different municipal
whether they belong to the Moro people who became members of the MILF police stations. In February 2000, the SIG was formally launched and
or the MNLF, or the indigenous peoples who have joined the NPA. How institutionalized in Cotabato PPO. This innovation and deliberate steps
can the police respond, so these people cannot justify rebellion against the elicited the support of clan and community leaders for the PNP efforts to
government? So that others will not lose faith in government or worst take address rido.
the law in their own hands and declare “rido” against opponents.
Facts of the case: The PNP immediately arrested Madalaw and sought the help of the datus and
Cause of conflict Failure of payment for land sale the RIDO staff to prevent further violence from the offended party. Note how the
Conflicting parties Padato family vs. Lao family police DID NOT JUST STOP, after they have arrested the suspect. Because indeed the
work does not just stop there. When the Datus learned about this fateful incident
Place of occurrence Brgy. Matanog, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur
between cousins Mangambit and Madalaw, they were worried that the relationship
Date of occurrence September 21, 2011
between the families would collapse and break out into a rido fight. To prevent
Casualties/damages 1 killed and 2 injured
further violence erupting from either parties, they went out of their way to appease
Mediators o LGU officials the offended. The datus proposed an amicable settlement of taritib and ijma to
o Barangay leaders
immediately settle the brewing conflict. Since the families involved come from one
o Traditional leaders
o Civil society leaders - RIDO, Inc. Staff clan, the settlement was not that difficult to negotiate. They were reminded that
the same blood flowing through their veins come from one heart that beats peace
Date of settlement February 16, 2012 and unity for their families and future generations. An agreement was reached that
Venue of settlement Municipal Hall, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur the offending party must pay the debt for the land sale, blood money for the death
of Mangambit and the injuries of those affected during the shooting incident.
Summary:
“The Local Chief Executive, the Peace Committee and the PNP observed the mourning
The conflict between the Mangambit and Madalaw happened on September 21, process respectfully and peacefully. They brought up genealogies and traced the
2011 at Brgy. Matanog, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur. The cause of the conflict was the relationships of both parties subtly in order to appease both parties. The mediators
failure of payment for the sale of the land. Mangambit inherited a half hectare of started the negotiations quietly through the close relatives and discussed the hokum
land from his parents, Diripo Lao and Polili Mindambag. But, instead of farming or corresponding mode of punishment or settlement in general. When the mourning
it, he sold it to his cousin, Madalaw Lao. The two made an agreement and dates process is sufficiently finished, the mediators divided their group into two. One is
of payment were set. When the agreed payment date came, Mangambit went to assigned to the offended party and other to the offending party. Each mediator team
collect the payment from his cousin. But Madalaw failed to pay because he did not worked to absorb emotions and appease grief and offer proposals to be considered by
have enough money. As time went by, cousin Mangambit got tired of the promisory each of the parties involved. Should the feuding parties agree on the mode of settlement,
excuses of Madalaw. the corresponding requirements for traditional mechanism include pangangawidan,
Finally, the agreement was reached and a peace settlement ensued. Speeches were Building and nurturing relationships are key elements in police community
made and afterwards both parties swear on the Qur’an. Representatives of the parties relations and conflict management. Do your best to resolve situations
are reminded to focus their speeches on the relationship of the parties by blood and without destroying relationships. Use these opportunities to build them or
essence of unity and reconciliation. After swearing on the Qur’an, they return to the even take such relationships to the next level.
kambatabataa or family relations to protect one another and the case is totally closed.
Involved parties embrace one another as a symbol of acceptance and willingness to Go the extra mile in making people realize the value of preserving
close the case formally. Then snacks for kanduri are served and followed by prayers.” relationships, especially family relations which is very important in rido
settlements. Lead people to choose family or friendly relations over harboring
Clearly, the community mediators were critical in preventing the splintering offenses. Forgiveness has much better chances of resulting into something
of relationships between the related families. They helped in maintaining the good over grudges and vendettas. Think out of the box and explore options
peace during the time of mourning. They facilitated the process of meeting the for a win-win solution for all. As they say, if there is THE WILL, THERE IS A WAY.
demands and in celebrating the reconciliation. The mediators helped draft a Kung gusto may paraan, kung ayaw, may dahilan
written agreement which stated that the two families will forgive and forget the
incident. Instead they will remember the good relationships they had before the
incident and remain steadfast in being peaceful members of the Mangambit and
Madalaw clans.
Overall, the collective effort of the police, community elders and the NGO staff
ensured the effective resolution of this rido between the Mangambit and Madalaw
clans. The police performed the full spectrum of their job in the process of
reconciliation – arrest, detention, mediation and providing security to key players
in the negotiation table. They jailed the suspect immediately, which appeased the
maratabat of the offended party. They stayed neutral and professional throughout
the entire process.
Scenario 7: RIDO lobbied for the withdrawal of the case filed by the offended party at the
How do you appease the maratabat (pride) of the Maranao? Regional Trial Branch 8 of Marawi, under criminal case number 5740-07. It facilitated
the filing of the affidavit of desistance despite the manipulation of one of the
Case Number | 7 Slandering resulting in an ambush politicians in the area due to personal interests. It mobilised a team that will handle
(documented by RIDO, Inc.) the mediation and negotiation processes. The team helped the suspects in resource
generation and contributed to the financial expenses for food, transportation and
other operational requirements. With the Council of Elders, this NGO conceptualized
the terms of the agreement that were proposed to both parties.
Summary:
Insights:
This particular conflict happened sometime in August 2008 between Family X from This particular rido resolution prevented election violence in this municipality
the Municipality of Ganasi and Family Y from Pualas in Lanao del Sur. in 2010, since some of the relatives of both parties reside in neighboring
barangays. Since the rido was effectively resolved early on, no incidence of
Accordingly, Mr. Y courted a woman from Family X and she became his girlfriend. On election-related violence transpired.
one occasion he bragged about it among his friends in the marketplace. The macho Before engaging in a mediation process, the most respected individuals and
man that he was, Mr. Y disclosed his intimate relationship with his girlfriend from personalities within the clan were identified to ensure credibility and respect
Family X. He even mentioned the name of the said girlfiend twice. Unfortunately, a from conflicting parties.
member of family X, Mr X1, accidentally overheard it and felt embarrassed about it. Slander is one of the grave sins in Islam. The case provided a lesson to everyone
This is considered slander and their family honor was violated. that respect for both women and men should be observed at all times and in
all places. A proof to the words of Prophet Mohammad SAW (Sallalahu Alayhi
In order to redeem his maratabat (pride), Mr X1 and cousins ambushed Mr. Y while Wasallam or peace be upon him), “It is better to be silent than to talk more
travelling in another municipality. This led to his death and the consequent PNP without sense.”
manhunt for the Family X cousins. Even with the support of the mayor, the manhunt Again, the collective effort of all concerned sectors worked towards the
led to no results after two days. On the third day, a certain Mr. Dianaton Tanog peaceful and swift resolution of this case. Spoilers such as politicians with
or “warrior” allegedly connected to the suspects helped in the police mission and their personal agenda and their selfish motives have been prevented from
they were able to capture and detain the suspects. Mr X1 and cousins were jailed encroaching on the case.
for seven (7) months before the final settlement of the case held at Pindolonan, Note: Slander is also an offense defined and punishable under the Revised Penal Code (oral
Municipality of Ganasi. defamation in Articles 358 and 359).
The datus then joined together with the local PNP which had members who were
relatives of both families. Invoking their same ancestors and their places of origin,
the mediator reminded the warring families that “ We are one.” This led to the
Facts of the Case opening of negotiations.
Causes Land boundary dispute
During the negotiation process, the Paniorotan family made a strong demand
Names of conflicting parties Paniorotan family and Sulutan sa taraka family
before the mediators: they should be allowed to kill the person responsible for the
Place Occurred Brgy. Mapia Lupa, Pikong, Lanao Del Sur death of the patriarch’s son. But the mediators refused to give in to the demand
Date Occurred 2007 and further engaged the Paniorotan family in an extended give-and-take process
Casualties/Damages 1 killed and damage to properties of negotiation.
Names of mediators W"'1S%@)&6),(
T&,&$G&/%."'$.8@",( About that time, RIDO Inc. came to the community to help inform and educate
5JX%" %%.8&@( the people about the effects of volent conflict and offered help in resolving the
0"@8.) rido. The mediators were all the more encouraged to continue their work with the
!8Q8@%Y".8)1/%2BZ7K[%Z$.>%(1&%%4 arrival of the RIDO Inc and the support offered by this peacekeeping NGO. One
benefit of this intervention was the issue of the blood money: if the offender was no
7&1)%"*%()%@)#)$1% \&$'&,/%DE[%<LD<
longer able to raise the necessary payment, the mediators would be the one who
])$')%"*%()%@)#)$1 O&,&$68$G[%5&@&[%5&$&"%7)@%^",1) will provide for the expenses of the kandori (feast).
Case Number | 9 Rido conflict resolution through Salsillah or Casualties/Damages 2 dead, injuries to other persons
Genealogies (documented by RIDO, Inc.)
Date of settlement May 24, 2012
Venue of settlement
Brgy. Hall Mapantao, Marogong, Lanao del Sur
Summary:
The conflict happened during the month of Ramadhan (August 2011) at Upper Bita,
Butig, Lanao del Sur. The source of conflict was the marital problem of spouses H.
Ismael Domaorong and Bae Darimbang. Ismael broke up with his wife and wanted
Soon, news of the shootout spread like wildfire. Due to their clannish mentality, Insight: It is important for the police to note that family problems such
Ismael’s family sought to take matters into their own hands. They pursued Orak and as marital separation and its resulting consequences could erupt into a
killed him to avenge Ismael’s death. Camillo, Orak and Bae’s cousin was there when full-blown rido. What is normally considered as a mere family problem
the retaliation happened and became an unfortunate casualty for simply being a can become a social problem. In settling such conflicts, remind both
relative present at the crime scene. parties to be careful with word wars and threats that can lead to injuries
and deaths especially since firearms are kept in many households in the
Intervention: Southern Philippines.
Upon hearing about the incident, concerned community mediators (LGU, NGOs)
were alarmed and worried that further violence will transpire if no intervention was
done to appease the conflicting parties. The mediators thought that the deaths of
Ismael and Orak evened out the death scores between the two families – 1:2, and
thus the more urgent problem was Camilo’s family who might avenge his death
and kill another person from Ismael’s family. Hence, they wanted to negotiate with
them instead of Orak’s family.
The RIDO Inc staff organized a Quick Response Team to assist community mediators
in settling the case between Camilo and Ismael’s family. Accordingly, Ismael’s family
agreed to pay blood money in the amount of P200,000 for Camilo’s death. RIDO
Inc. helped in preparing the money and the dialogue for this peace settlement.
In confronting the rido problem, experience has taught conflict managers that the
best defense is offense. We may call it a peace offensive to proactively seek out rido
cases to resolve and prevent violence. The police should not just be a mere scorer
between the warring parties, but he can be a transformer of the conflict. Given the
right framework and tools, the police can assert its authority to resolve rido and put
an end to this complex web of violence.
Below (Figure 4) is the ASSERT Framework that lists the proposed steps a police
station must take to address rido as a problem in its AOR. Rido cases vary in
complexity so bear in mind that the listed steps may not always follow the same
order. There may also be times that you have to go back to a previous phase or
step. This framework only serves as a practical guide and may be complemented by
consultations from traditional and other community leaders. Effective application
relies much on the professionalism, patience and peacebuilding skills of the police
and the active participation of partners in collectively resolving the rido conflict.
Knowledge of the community is the critical starting point. Review and analyze the
existing database on crimes. Give special attention to rido related crimes. Interview
the members of the police station, especially those who have been there for a long
period of time. Give them specific assignments in gathering data. Validate the data
from different sources such as LGU officials, fellow officers who were previously as-
signed in the locality and reliable community leaders.
Do conflict mapping. Dig deeper into the root causes of the problem. Identify the o Who are the fighters of the leaders or the clans? What is their opinion on the
actors in the rido – their allies, neutral relatives, respected elders -- and their specific conflict? Do they have the same opinion with their political leaders?
interests. Below are some basic questions to answer:
o What role does government or military/police play in local power dynamics?
What is the conflict trigger/triggers? What caused/ initiated the
conflict in the community? Resolving rido is always a collective effort. Research and go to the people who
What are the root causes or underlying causes of conflict? can influence the decision makers from both sides. Convince them to help and
What is sustaining the conflict? support your peacekeeping efforts. Know who to involve at appropriate states of
Who are the main actors/ parties in the conflict? What are their the resolution process and when they should be involved.
interests?
Who are their allies? What are their relationships to the main Phase II. Engage and Resolve
protagonists? 1. Prevent and diffuse tensions.
What are the possible “soft spots” of the contending actors? 2. Resolve through traditional, modern or combined means.
Who are the potential spoilers in this conflict? Who stands to benefit 3. Negotiate or mediate depending on the situation.
most if this conflict is prolonged? 4. Seal the deal with relatives and the community as witnesses.
Who are the possible people to approach toward engaging and
possibly resolving this conflict? Who are the right people to approach Be professional and enforce the law without fear or favor. Talk to the people and their
in gaining clarity about the conflict, in strategizing interventions, and leaders. Assure them that the police is doing its best in keeping the peace in the locality.
in resolving the conflict? Stay neutral and avoid giving the impression of any biases from the police.
Do political mapping. Determine the context that will help you visualize and Be sincere in either the negotiation or mediation tables. Determine the right tool
analyze the political & local dynamics surrounding the conflict. Below are some to use and involve the support of allies. Also, determine if there are hindrances or
basic questions for partners on political mapping of the context. spoilers in the resolution process. Sometimes a rido is prolonged or worsens because
personal interests arise during the negotiation period. Do not be intimidated. Stay
o Who are the most powerful/ influential actors? focused and do not let your efforts be hijacked by self-interested politicians.
o Which actors are marginalized or excluded from local power? Seal the resolution through a peace covenant or other religious and traditional
means. This is an excellent advocacy opportunity so be sure to engage the
o Are there competing elite groups at the local level? community in witnessing the peace ceremony.
Do not stop yet. Make the necessary follow-ups in order to sustain the peace. These stories of peace have the power to save lives -- pass it on.
Think outside the box and transform negative energies to positive engagements.
For example, engage the parties in genealogies. Genealogies are tools in
conflict resolution. Bring up accounts of relationships of descent especially in
communities where kinship ties are strong. Foster harmony through community-
building activities.
Search for relationships that work and nurture these invaluable bonds. As the
saying goes, make friends before you need them. Build bridges instead of walls.
Finally, DO NOT FORGET to document the story of the rido that you have resolved –
or still trying to resolve. If resolved, write the report and take photos of the kanduri
or the peace ceremony. Emphasize the importance of this legacy of peace not only
to the families involved, but to their future generations as well. It is not true that
families are stuck with the choices that their forefathers have made, but instead
they can make their own choice – whether peace or violence for themselves and
their children.
Paglas, Ibrahim. Testimonial of Datu Toto Paglas: Forum on the Big and Silent Killer:
Getting to the Bottom of Rido., Asia Foundation: Davao City, May 31, 2005.
Piñol, Manny. Philippine Daily Inquirer website: December 28, 2009 http://newsinfo.
inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20091228-244267/Big-time-gambling-
patriarch-plays-high-stakes-politics
Integral Development Services Bangsamoro Center for Justpeace in the CO-Multiversity Mindanao Dynamic Culture of Peace, Inc.
Poblacion 8, Midsayap, North Cotabato Philippines, Inc. Edilberto “Evhoy” Villaruel Mr. Jamael Datudacula
Ms. Bing Constantino Mr. Abdulbasit R. Benito Mindanao Coordinator Executive Director
Project Manager Executive Director Community Organizers Multiversity Bo. Sekap, Mindanao State University
Mobile: 09195221545 Int. 005-C Don E. Sero Street, Rosary Heights 4 18 Marunong St. Brgy. Central, Quezon City Marawi City
Email: [email protected] Cotabato Tel. No.: 9220246/9270794 Mobile: 09195005573
Tel. No.: (064) 390-2726 Mobile:09284943864 Email:[email protected]
Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Opportunities (RIDO Inc.) Mobile:09197245492 Bangsamoro Women Solidarity Forum Inc.
Door 1 Hidaya Aparatment, Ceanouri Subd. Young Moro Professionals Network Tarhata M. Maglangit
Camague Street, Iligan City GinapaladTaka Inc. Shahana Abdulwahid Executive Director
Mr. Pogie Atar Mr. Mabanag Suleik Chairperson 22-E Sekak Apartment, Gonzalo Javier St.
Executive Director Executive Chairman 108 Jocfer Bldg., Commonwealth Avenue Cotabato City
Mobile: 09186236493 Pikit National Highschool Compound Quezon City Mobile No.:0928-3157279
Telefax: 063-225-4219 Poblacion, Pikit, Cotabato Mobile: 09174689886 Telefax: (064) 421-4439
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Mobile:09279904171 Bangsamoro Development Agency – Satellite Of ce
United Muslim Professional for Peace and Magungaya Center for PALMA Inc. Mr. Nasser Gayagay
Development Association Mindanao ComStrat and Policy Ms. Junalyn Gayak-Sumlay Focal Person
Purok Tumamin, Kalawag III, Isulan Alternative, Inc. Executive Director Poblacion Pikit, North Cotabato
Sultan Kudarat Atty. Charina Sanz Brgy. Nes, Midsayap, Cotabato Mobile: 09203077339
Mr. Quraish Langcap Chairperson Mobile: 09216522695 Email: [email protected]
Mobile:09168548513 Door 3, 2nd Floor, Rizal Pelicano Building Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected] McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City Sustainable Alternatives for the Advancement
Tel. No.: (082) 3035901 Ulangig Mindanao, Inc. of Mindanao, Inc.
Mindanao Tulong Bakwet, Inc. Email: [email protected] Mr. Amildasa Annil Ms. Elizabeth M. Padilla
Ms. Fairudz Ibrahim-Ebus Chairman Door #3 Sangcopan Apartment, Purok Pag-asa
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Mobile:09175484969 Email: [email protected] Basilan Advocates for Peace, Environment, and
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United Youth for Peace and Development Mr. Robert Apadan Mr. Modyr S. Tupay
Mr. Anwar Upahm Tribal Coalition of Mindanao Project Officer Brgy. Tabuk, Isabela City, Basilan
Datu Liwa Candao Street, Shariff Kabungsuan, RH-3, Mr. Datu Ronnie Q. Tuga Purok 7, Tienda Aplaya, Digos City Mobile: 09082889938
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Please accomplish this form and keep in your record. You can use this NOTES
to apply for an award for a rido conflict resolution. Date:
A Practical Guide for the Police & other Community Peacekeepers 101
About the Book
This is a very timely book. If things continue to go well with the talks between the
government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and peace will nally be achieved in
the war zones, the next critical thing that all actors involved and concerned with sustaining
that peace is to nd ways to solve the more corrosive problem of rido. This critical guide
complements well the study produced by Asia Foundation on rido and adds on to it by
providing us with concrete measures on how to deal with the different actors at the local
level. Not only is this a must read, but everyone in the eld putting the peace process in
action needs to carry it with him/her.
Patricio N. Abinales
Professor,
School of Pacic and Asian Studies
University of Hawaii-Manoa and
author of Orthodoxy and History in the Muslim Mindanao Narrative (Ateneo Press, 2010)
This Rido Handbook is a commendable effort by the Philippine National Police to draw
from their own rich experiences in engaging rido in the eld and distilling lessons into
operational procedures for police personnel. It represents the continuing institutional
efforts to better understand clan violence and nd effective responses to it, amidst the
unique challenges of law enforcement in subnational conict areas of the Philippines.
Supported by the Australian Government - The Asia Foundation Partnership in the Philippines