Maiden Issue

The Official Publication of the Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) Inc.

December 2007

EDITORIAL
fter being a spectator of RIDO, Inc. for almost a year, it amazes me how it actually works to settle clannish disputes (technically termed as rido) in a very interesting way. It may take some time though but the fruits of hard labor can be pretty rewarding. Viewing it from an external perspective, rido is definitely complicated, complex but negotiable; may be irrational and absurd for some but its uniqueness has raised the curiosity of the masses. Rido has become a part and parcel of Maranao culture and tradition despite its damaging effects. Some clashes can be expensive and extravagant, both materially and immaterially. More often than not, lives are sacrificed to protect ones pride and extreme sensitivity even for the shallowest reasons. As an outsider like you, probably, this may not be an easy thing to understand, nevertheless, to prevent its onset is an effective way of avoiding one. It is along this line that the efforts of RIDO, Inc. are greatly appreciated. By acting as middlemen, many conflicts which have been hindering peace and development in the Lanao area were resolved constructively. Over the years, many Maranao families have had difficulties with strategies in putting an end to these customary problems but now they already have a conduit in which to channel their predicaments. For almost two years now, RIDO, Inc. has changed the lives of rido-stricken families by steering away the risks which might have undoubtedly placed them in the limelight if not intervened upon. Through the clan organization of Maranao traditional families, the road to peace and development is now attainable. This was once seen as impossible, but now it is within reach. With RIDO, Inc. and the cooperation of the Maranao clans and their Council of Elders, it is with deep optimism that the entanglement among conflicting parties can be straightened. It should be remembered that the most gratifying treasures in life lie among the hopeful. It is not too late to thwart the occurrence of rido. This Product is the First Publication of RIDO Inc. which made possible by the generous support of the America People thru the United State Agency for International Development (USAID) thru the humble initiatives of The Asia Foundation (TAF). The contents are the responsibility of the RIDO Inc. and do not necessary reflect the views of USAID or The Asia Foundation. Inquiries of the content should be address to Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities Inc., DR1 Hidaya Apartment, Ceanory, Camague, Iligan City or pogie_atar@hotmail.com The RIDO Inc. is a registered non-stock, nonprofit organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission under COMPANY REG. CN200630844 which is envision to harness the role and strengthen the potentials of traditional structures, leaders and mechanisms for the prevention and resolution of family, clan and inter-ethnic conflicts in Mindanao and in Lanao province in particular and for the promotion of Culture of Peace.

Table of
EDITORIAL MESSAGES 2 3-7 Processes under taken by RIDO Inc. to address rido 8 What you need to know about rido 9

CONTENTS

Pattern of Maranao Conflict Resolution Rido cases settled by RIDO Inc. Family tree of MSM Testimonials from elders RIDO Book launching UGAT Conference 16 Individual elders and group pictures 17-23 MSM codified traditional customary laws RIDO in Action FEATURES 27 33-35 History of MSM 33 16 13-14 15 11

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How was RIDO Inc. conceptualized 16

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Editorial Board
Chairman: ....Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar, MPA Editor-in-Chief:........ Sherifa O. Kadil-Adiong Lay-out & Design: ........ Luis Siddick F. Adiong Contributors: Samira Gutoc Shidik Abantas Masbud Gaima II

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ll praise is to Almighty Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon to Prophet Muhammad S.A.W and his Family and Companions. Allah said in the Quran (O Man Kind! We created You from a Single pair of male and female and made you into a nation and tribes that you may know and cooperate with one another) 49:13. The actual output we have done so far was not only tenderizing but also emotionally daunting to me. The rigors that it entailed were too overwhelming that I could say the entire trajectory of my experiences with it dotted with more troughs and challenges. Thanks to Almighty Allah, the clan genealogy and other crucial institutional strengthening activities of the descendants of Sultan of Marawi including conflict resolution processes was finally started. The prevailing existence of violence in our areas locally term as rido which crippled our local economy, displaced communities, destructed many properties, fomented fear and absence of peace and order in many areas in Lanao was the reason for the creation of RIDO Inc. with the collaboration with the traditional leaders so that this social problems facing by the Maranao people will be address. Thus, to seek the way of peace and solidarity, we must redeem ourselves; renew the good traditional values and practices and make amends for the past and call to mind our role in advancing the frontiers of peace and unity. It is a great pleasure to record my gratitude to all Council of elders and youth of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi who exerted their services in a highest dedication of volunteerism to the clan in pursuing their dream as a future model Sultanate in Mindanao especially to the elders who already passed away. I am equally grateful to the People of America thru United States Agencies for International Development (USAID) and The Asia Foundation (TAF) for their unselfish support to us especially for the realization of the actual resolution of conflict settled particularly to Wilfredo M. Torres III, TAF Program Officer and her assistant Ms. Bianca Altavas who provided us the chance and opportunity to show our organizational skills and capacity in conflict management and transformation even in a very short span of time. Special mentioned also goes to the UNMDP Act for Peace program, the Catholic Agencies for Overseas Development (CAFOD) and the Local NGO partners, the GPRC, ECOWEB, MSU-IPDM, and the KI Inc. for their enthusiastic assistance during the first year operation of our organization. Further, this first publication of our organization will give you information about good practices in conflict resolution processes undertaken by RIDO Inc. with the council of elders. It also provides you an updates and programs on works and efforts done by our traditional leaders and clan members in other peace building efforts. I hope that you will enjoy reading our publication and learn more about RIDO Inc. and its role and involvement in peace building activities. Indeed, I congratulate the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi for their tremendous accomplishment for the past two years that showed a remarkable impact in their contribution in attaining a peaceful and prosperous society. As descendants of Datu Alangadi and Bae of Samporna, We must help, care, respect and love to each other and continue searching a doable approach that answers the current catastrophe and social phenomenon that hindered us to attain a lasting peace. To my family, relatives, In-laws, and the founders of RIDO Inc., I salute you all! And More Power!

Message

Abdul Hamidullah Pogie T. Atar, MPA

Executive Officer, RIDO Inc.

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Message
After more than a year of breakthrough in peacebuilding work, the Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities, Inc. (RIDO, Inc.) sees the importance of sharing its experiences and lessons learned. But without the groups and individuals that helped, this rich experience may not come to reality. Thus, an important purpose of this publication is also to thank those that have helped and been part of the efforts and learning process undergone by the organization. Our sincerest thanks to the donor agencies that believed in the vision and capacity of RIDO, Inc. and supported its efforts in realizing its mission in building peace by harnessing the role and strengthening the capacity of the Maranao traditional structures in conflict transformation. These donor agencies include the UNMDP Act for Peace Programme, The Asia Foundation, and the UK-based Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) through the Grassroots Peacebuilding Resource Center, Inc. (GPRC), an NGO based in Lanao. Aside from GPRC, RIDO, Inc. is also thankful to another local NGO, the Ecosystems Work for Essential Benefits, Inc. (ECOWEB) for its great support, especially in the first year of the organizations programme implementation. Worth to mention also was the engagement with the MSU Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), among others. But, without the trust and confidence of the major partner of RIDOs undertakings, stories and lessons in conflict resolution and peace building herein published may not be possible. Greatest thanks to the trust and full cooperation of the elders, leaders and descendants of the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi clan and its sub-clans and of the Bae sa Radapan clan. These clans that have wide reach all over Lanao provinces have shown that indeed Maranao traditional structures have great role in conflict transformation and peace building. They have proven that, despite being disenfranchised through legal means in the past but if given a chance, centuries-old social structures can be and still a potent resource for peace. May the almighty God/Allah bless us all! Thank you and Wassalam!

Nanette Salvador-Antequisa
Chairperson of the Board

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MessageOF UNITY WITHIN OUR CLAN

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem. Assalamo Alaikom WRahmatullahi WBarakatoh! Our religion, ISLAM, expressly stated, as the Holy Quran provides, the values of unity, solidarity, harmony and working together as wajib and obligatory to all Muslims. The call for a Grand Family Reunion is in order and worthy of praise and the support and cooperation of everyone of us! As the present Sultan of Marawi, I wish to convey, including my family and the rest of the Califah Dato/Bai of the Royal Sultanate of Marawi, our warmest thanks and gratitude to our relatives who visualized and paved the way for the realization of this call for family unity as demonstrated in this occasion. Thus, we say Alhamdulillah with Doa that this will serve as just a start of a series of long, long era of working together to have lasting peace, harmony and solidarity among us all the descendants and offsprings of our ancestors, may ALLAH (SWT) bless them all. I wish to cite here that what we are doing also is an act of ibadat, a form of prayer and doa for our forefathers and their progenies. Our goal is to be able to contribute to the unity of the Ummah Islamiyah as our forefathers had done. With our number now having all the educational qualifications both in English and in Arabic, we have with us professionals and ulamas which our ancestors dont have. We have all the ingredients for success in this world and most especially in the akhirah. Yours truly, aside form being the present Chairman of the Ranao 28 Legislative Sultanates Council (Bebaya-baya ko Taritib sa Inged a Ranao) and likewise serving as Convenor/Acting Chairman of the newly organized Federation of Royal Sultanates of the Philippines, with humility, I was able to extend the influence and diplomacy of the Philippine Sultanate to the frontiers of the Malay World where Sultanates originally started as part of the global Islamization process. I was invited twice by the Sultans of Malaysia, an act that have helped intensify our contacts with our brother Muslims. This could be apart of our familys contribution to the growth and development of the Royal Sultanates of the Philippines. This could be a part of our family legacy to the Ranao Sultanates. I feel certain, that this is an inspiration to our next and succeeding Sultans of Marawi. And I am sure that the ones who will succeed me can do it better more so if we move as one big family. We hope that in this Grand Family Reunion, we shall be able to draw up our family-constitution and by-laws with a list of inventory of all the members of our big clan with pictures / video. Thus, this will be augmented by a dynamic organization with new set of officers. Wabillahit Taufiq Wal Hidaya Wassalamo Alaikom! Mabuhay!

Engr. Asgar Sani

Sultan sa Marawi

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Message
ASSALAMO ALAIKOM WARAHMATULLAHI WABARAKATUHO In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful Hopefully, Insha-Allah, the descendants of the SULTAN SA MARAWI reach their long awaited dreams and aspirations in getting into solidarity and oneness with the guidance of the God Almighty and shall reach too the mainstream of worldly prosperity which shall make them live up to the expectations of the whole Sultanatess constituency taking into account its sincere attention to all beneficial undertakings. It is, therefore, prayed that with the advent of the overhauled and reinvigorated respect, courtesy and understanding between and among individual members shall deeply stay and perpetuate so that everybody must heartily get involved and make them impossible to forget. Trusting that the leadership of our forefathers and that of the inspiring ones today shall lead a stewardship that the Sultanates descendants will forever treasure. Finally, I learned to love and believe that what we have shared with one another in the past and present advocacies are monumental achievements which to me are memories that time cannot erase. I remain and wassalam.

Datu Subair Rakiin Guinthum Mustapha

Cabugatan sa Marawi

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Message
ASSALAMO ALAIKOM WARAHMATULLAHI WABARAKATUHO I feel the exhilaration and excitement for the forthcoming 1st Grand Reunion of Maruhom Sidick, one of the descendants of Sultan of Marawi. Let us cherish the occasion and make it memorable. Being the Mama-Sa-Marawi it is my conviction that through this effort, we can harness unity, solidarity and most significantly we can strengthen and bind our family relationships toward a peaceful and prosperous society. Indeed I challenge all of us to continue to support this endeavor until we reach the tip of our vision. I am thankful to the vigorous organizers who initiated the said Grand Reunion, and also for the council representatives for their sincerity in the realization of this family genealogy of Salsilah that will serve as reference in the future endeavor. It is indeed an achievement!

Datu Hashim Lantong

Mama Sa Marawi

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Mechanics and processes under taken by RIDO Inc. to address rido:

Rido Inc. started its peace building intervention based on clan organizing. The descendants of the Sultanate of Marawi were the pilot clan mobilized. Clan genealogy and identification of potential council of elders was part of the efforts undertaken. Within two years, more than 30 thousand clan members profiled their clan genealogy under the 3 clans namely the Sidikadatu, Maruhom Sidik and Balindong Jaman. At the same time hundreds of potential council of elders from every sub-clan were identified. The council of elders representing each sub-clan serves as peace advocate partners of Rido Inc. at the grassroots level. They focused in addressing the prevention and resolution of rido within and outside the clan. The clan members covered thirteen municipalities in the Lanao provinces and the cities of Iligan and Marawi. Within a two-year period, it showed remarkable impacts to the clan as (25) twenty five major and minor family and clan feuds were resolved. Rido Inc. thru the support of its partner agencies like USAID thru The Asia Foundation bears the institutional strengthening and capacity skills enhancement trainings and workshops among the clan elders to become fully equipped in facilitating ridos in their localities and sustain their operation based on their vision identified as a model sultanate in Mindanao. Below are the processes undertaken by the elders of the clan:

Clan Genealogy of Descendants of Sultanate of Marawi

Actual Outcomes
-Identified the relationship of the conflict parties whenever conflict arises within the clan -Identified the key actors in the resolution of rido within the clan -Identified the traditional titleholders to help in harnessing the traditional structures and systems -Recognized the potentials of the key actors for rido settlement -Identified mitigating mechanisms in addressing rido -Come up with doable processes by strengthening the Taritib & Ijma to resolve the rido arises with in the clan -Partially codified the adat or practices of MSM in enthronement procedure to avoid future conflict -Set up direction setting among the elders for future sustainable operation

Adhere with Maranao core values such as the 7 Ks 1.Kanggiginawae 2. Kasusulae 3. Kapamagongowa 4. Kapamagogopa 5. Katethabanga 6. Kapenanapiya 7. Kapamagadata

Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Skills Enhancement

Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Skills Enhancement

Resolution and Transformation of Rido

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RIDO

By: Abdul Hamidullah Pogie T. Atar

Rido or clan feud is a cycle of vengeance or retaliation, which results to killings among Maranao families and clans in Lanao. Rido is characterized by violent initial reactions to a perceived insult or hurt by an individual to another person/s belonging to another family or clan. It is followed by retaliatory actions and counter retaliatory attacks of the members of the disputants family which may last for as long as three generations when left unattended. These problems considered as viruses in the Maranao society brought about serious harms such as loss of lives, destruction of property and absence of peace and order which have become hindrances to socioeconomic, political and spiritual development. The proliferation of firearms and the concept of honor and pride or maratabat are noted as major causes for the escalation of rido into violence. Further, political rivalry, land disputes and crimes related to women like elopement, petty crimes, drug-related crimes, mistaken identity and non-payments of debts are considered as the most popular causes of rido in Maranao society. Different societies or communities see the escalation of conflict, specifically armed conflict, as disruptive in the peoples way of life especially for the poor and the ones living at subsistence level. Once conflict arises, the members of the kin group or the community are immobilized, as they become potential targets for retaliation. Most of the Maranaos do not submit their rido case to the Philippine Court because it is a shame on their dignity that they cannot punish the killer with their own hands. Many of the family victims had bad experiences in submitting conflicts for resolution in the Philippine court. They knew that without much funds they could not avail justice. Appeal to the Philippine court is only done to imprison the killer or offender, but rido does not end because once the killer or offender is released from the prison, he could still be killed or retaliated by the other party. The possibility of retaliation is still at hand because of maratabat. During the existence of the Traditional Justice System, the titleholders from the Sultanate system operate effectively, able to protect the welfare of their constituents justly and equally. The system of governance ruled by the Sultans and other traditional titleholders was very strong and systematic. Most of the conflict arising during their time were settled by the Sultan and his subordinates. The people obeyed the law and their existences were guided with good principles and virtues like Kanggiginawae (giving emphasis on the importance of friendship), Kapamagogopa (helping one another), which led to a peaceful community. Both the national government and the civil society organizations from the academe, NGOs, religious and other groups address the problem of rido, however, it seem to worsen instead. In the recent 2007 barangay elections for instance, we documented that 15 people died from different areas in Lanao, many were wounded and major and minor injuries of all sorts took place just to grab political power. Every year, the rido cases in Lanao are increasing although this kind of practice is contrary to the teachings of Islam. Why does this culture of violence still rampant in our areas? Is it because we have multi-justice system such as Taritib and Ijma, Shariah law either MILF justice system or from the Shariah incorporated in the Philippine legal system, or the Philippine legal system itself? Who is accountable for this kind of practice? The individual Maranao? Our leaders? The political system in the country? Is it because our faith in Allah has declined? Is it because of the extreme poverty incidence in our society? Or maybe because of our historical experiences in colonial wars which resulted in intense cultural violence? Many questions should be diagnosed for us to answer our doubts but whatever is it, It prevails in our mind that rido is a virus. It is like bacteria that if you touch it, it clinches then transfers from one person to another. Meaning, if one of the members of the family kills a person and since you are relatives of that assailant whether you like it or not you are already involved, because of the blood that binds you together, directly or indirectly. The Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities Inc. (RIDO) was established to address the growth and proliferation of rido in Lanao. RIDO Inc. envisions harnessing and strengthening the potentials of the traditional mechanisms, structures and leaders in adopting the prevention and resolution of rido and its causes and effect to the inter-family/clan or between ethnic groups for the promotion of a culture of peace. Because of this, we categorized our program into five components which includes clan organizing, conflict resolution, cultivating good and sound governance, livelihood and literacy program. All these components were intended to deal with the social problem in Maranao society known as rido.

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Schematic Diagram on the Patterns of Maranao Conflict Resolution

Among Maranaos when serious conflict occurs, each family of the conflicting parties summon their relatives for a consultation (kapemomosawira). During consultation, each party gathers the initial information (kapangamad). Each party traces the lineage and social status of the other. The offended family identifies who would be the targets of retribution. The father, brothers, uncles and male first cousins of the offender, and the offender are the legitimate objects of revenge. Among the identified targets, the offended relatives will aim at the acknowledged leader (datu) of the offenders clan those with power and wealth (ge-es ago tamok), or the elder-members and leaders (manga pelokelokesan) of the clan with influence over the members, if they do not succeed in getting the immediate offender. Any of those identified targets does appease their burning desire of vengeance. When the immediate offender is of low social status, the main targets of revenge from his clan are the elders and those with power and wealth. On the other side, the offenders relatives are also gathered by getting information (kapangamad) about the offended family. At the same time brainstorming is done on who could be an influential person they can ask to serve as their peacemaker/mediator (pamitiara). To reconcile with the victims clan, the usual criteria are socio-economic status, power/position in the government, communication skill, and relation to one of both parties in conflict. Someone of equal status with the conflicting parties (sukudan) who possesses those criteria is an influential mediator. As soon as the negotiator is identified, he starts his mediation (kapamitiara) by going to the offended family. He informs the offended family that the other family is requesting for an immediate resolution of their conflict, and thus holds the conflict (kakapetan iyan so rido). While the conflict is in his hands, he obliges the offended family not to do any act of retaliation. He persuades them to give him enough time to facilitate communication between them and the offenders family. After this first interaction, usually the victims family also selects among the family members a representative who takes charge in communicating with the other partys mediator. Thus, they mediator and representative are the ones directly communicating on and about the conflict. A one-on-one ration of mediator is usually not forceful; hence, additional members are enjoined to participate as supporting mediators. At times, tried and popular mediator(s) who is neutral to one or both conflicting parties may be hired or requested for help. Many Maranao mates are trained and known for their craft in mediation. The peacemaker/mediator plays a very crucial role in Maranao conflict resolution. Maranaos in conflict cannot see each other eye-to-eye while their conflict is unsettled. It is risky for them to come face-to-face because the offended family is bound by customs and tradition to retaliate (saop) his family prestige (maratabat). As soon as the conflict is placed in the hands of the mediator, he acts as a bond between the conflicting parties. In mediating, he undergoes different stages of communication processes, which further determines the resolution or non-resolution of the conflict. The mediator, equipped with his communication skills and attributes, above all, does the gathering of information. He gets first-hand information about the conflict from the offender and his family, those who have witnessed the crime, those who have knowledge of the origin of the conflict, and from the aggrieved family. However, he believes only those who are truthful, just and fair. In information gathering, the mediator is not only tracing the origin, development, and explosion of the conflict, but he is also trying to discover

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what messages the conflicting parties are sending and are reacting to. This leads him to a way on how, what and when to pacify the conflicting families. After the mediator accomplished the getting of information, he proceeds to the next process which is getting the commitment (kitakhesen ko makambabala) from the parties. To avoid the conflicting parties from retracting while the mediation is going on, the mediator has to hold on (takhes) to both parties. He does this by asking both parties to give their commitment for the resolution of their conflict. Once this is done, the mediator undergoes the corresponding mediations. In the mediation, the mediator employs different communication strategies to persuade and eventually convince the conflicting parties to have their conflict resolved. He employs pleading (kapedi-pedi na kalimo-limo); reminiscing (kapananadem/kapangangaloy); threatening (kapangangalek/kapangalap) and imposing of thought/wisdom (kitegelen ko lalag). The mediators success or failure in mediating a conflict becomes part of his personality, thus he mediates with extra care and skill. If there are no problems, the mediator asks for a waiting period (taalik) for the resolution ceremony (kaphasada ko rido). The waiting period is aimed at giving time to the offenders side for the solicitation of financial aid (kapamakitabang) from relatives and allies for the needed penalty (panginsala) for the offense. If there are terms not acceptable to one or both parties, they have to discuss it through the mediator separately until they arrive at a compromise. When a compromise is beyond reach, the mediator may withdrawn from mediating, and the resolution process comes to stalemate. When this happens, the conflicting parties are one to retaliation (kasaop) anytime at the convenience. The retaliation and counter retaliation may drag for months and even years if not remedied immediately. When a certain mediator is withdrawn, other middle relative(s) (sukodan) can come in or may request by those concerned. During the resolution ceremony, the conflicting parties and their relatives will come face-to-face with the mediator(s) and witnesses. They will meet at the aggrieved familys house or to a neutral place chosen by the offended family or the mediator. After the speech(es), both parties will be made to swear before the Holy Quran that they put an end to their enmity, and that they renew and strengthen their relationship. Thus, they will not renew the conflict in any way or in any circumstance. This is followed by a thanksgiving celebration (Kandori) where food and drinks are served and closed by an invocation. In minor conflicts, the thanksgiving celebrations may not be held, but instead some amount is given away which replace the thanksgiving food. For conflict transformation, especially when both parties want to relive their friendship and unity and to avoid doubtful feelings from each other, a marriage proposal may completely seal their conflict. In Maranao justice system, there are three categories for the conflict resolution namely, Blood Money (Diyah) paying the victims depends on his status and background, Forgiveness (rila) and Principle of Equality (Qiyas) - If person kill a person with out valid reasons , he will be killed also.

Example of a rido case settled by RIDO Inc. with MSM elders

The organization decided not to mention the names of the conflicting parties as a sign of respect to the settlement of the case. The case is about a political rivalry which escalated into a serious rido which existed for 15 years and resulted to 32 confrontations, multiple murder and numerous injuries. There were two Maranaos who ran for a Barangay post. In the course of political campaigns, they had mudslinging that ended with character assassination. These candidates belonged to clans A and B. Hurt that their personalities were besmirched, they ended into a series of 32-armed confrontations. Four males of the conflicting parties were killed in this encounter. One of those killed was X1 from clan B. In 1993, the assailant Z1 was captured and for 21 days at PNP jail at Lancaf of Marawi city. However, Commander Y1 and Professor Y2, prominent MNLF commanders, facilitated the release of X2 from prison. After freed, Clan B immediately hired a killer and paid him P50,000, a night with a woman and a M14 rifle to kill Mr. X2 or any member of their perceived enemy. The hired killer murdered Z2 from clan A. In August 2000, the family of clan A attacked the family of clan B while they were inside the mosque praying. In this attack, one was killed and two were wounded. These are X2, X3 (12 years old) and X4, a brother of a Barangay Captain from Clan B. In this escalated case, former governor B1 and former Vice Governor B2 intervened to settle the conflicts. However, in this attempt, the Vice Governor wanted to give an M14 rifle and blood money to family of Clan A. The conflict was not resolved, however. In August 21, 2004, X5, then municipal councilor of a Municipality in Lanao, had an encounter with the family member of clan A. X5 instantly died in the scene. His family filed a criminal case in the court against the assailant. When the court released the warrant of arrest, they asked the military to serve it. As they were on their way to serve the warrant, they were misled with false information by some Barangay residents. Relying on this, they went into an area where members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) gathered. The unexpected arrival of the soldiers prompted rebels to armed confrontation, killing 12 MNLFs instantly who were not part of this electoral feud.

Interventions:
1. In April August, the Rido Inc. thru Council of Elders (COE) had a dialogue with the conflicting parties thru elders from clan B, who happens to be a member of COE. They agreed to fast tract the resolution. 2. They traced the timba-timbang or neutral family who are connected to all conflicting parties and asked them to help resolve the case.

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3. Rido Inc. shouldered the Kandori thru the humble supports of USAID and The Asia Foundation and tapped most of the traditional leaders to be part of the mediation team. Rido Inc. held seven series of meetings and have mobilized 45 traditional leaders to attend and witness the slated date of formal reconciliation or settlement. 4. Rido Inc. also helped for conflict transformation by planning to launch an intermarriage of conflicting parties. It also helped in resource mobilization to pay the hospital bills of the victims. 5. Leg working and motivation to the elders was priority task of Rido Inc. to utilize their participation in the resolution of the case, although, they knew that the case is very hard to settle since many politicians were not able to settle it previously.

become liberated from fears. 8. The location of the meeting area at times hindered some of the elders to attend.

Recommendations of RIDO Inc. to minimize rido.

1. Replicate the clan organizing of descendants of Sultan of Marawi to other clan in four confederations in Lanao so that more traditional leaders empowered can continue support the campaign for the prevention and resolution of rido in their respective communities. 2. The Maranao Customary Justice system through clan base organizing must be strengthened and institutionalized in order to provide the Maranao people an alternative mechanism in disputes settlement, which is more effective and efficient. 3. Both government and civil society organization particularly the local agencies should recognize and support the revival and empowerment of the Sultanate in Mindanao particularly in Lanao so that it will generate more peace waivers. 4. The local grass roots advocates through the council of elders should harness their potentials in order to be responsive enough to address the local conflict within their respective area prior to the escalation of conflict. 5. The current funding donors in Mindanao concerns for peace program should support the installation of multipurpose building or Torogan for the traditional leaders that will serve as venue for disputes settlement and can also be utilized as the office for the Traditional leaders in performing their responsibilities. 6. Both national to local agencies of the government should take seriously in addressing the proliferation of rido and come up with strategic actions to minimize the causes of rido identified (e.g. proliferation of loss firearms, poverty, poor quality of education, values distortion, electoral fraud and the rest). 7. Strengthening of Islamic faith and support to the Madrasah system so that more discipline and intellectual individuals in Islam will be produced as partners in peace campaign program. 8. Discussions about rido should be brought to the public for awareness especially among the youth so that they would get involved in activities related to the eradication of Rido in their respective communities. 9. Educate the younger generations as early as now on Rido and its effects towards our contemporary society so that they will be able to build friendships instead of gaps.

Final settlement of conflict Poona Bayabao, Lanao del Sur Realizations:

1. Politicians with conflicting interests are not effective in resolving rido. It is an insult to provincial officials who failed to settle the conflict. 2. Using military troops to serve the warrant, as decided by the court, just worsened the rido and in fact resulted to deaths of the innocents. 3. Neutral family really helped in fast tracking the negotiation and settlement of conflict. 4. Electoral system has become one of the sources of conflict in Maranao predominated areas. Most Maranaos cannot accept defeat and will result to untoward acts. 5. Taritib and Igma is a good process of resolving conflicts especially if negotiations have a certain level of sincerity; free of personal interests and with serious commitment for peace. 6. The conflict was unsettled for 15 years. Most traditional leaders refused to settle the conflict because of lack of finances. The presence of USAID and TAF who provided financial assistance for resolution is truly significant. 7. Parties of the conflict expressed gratitude to Rido Inc. and to the Council of Elders now that they felt free to travel and

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( a pagari o Balindong )

DATUMAAS

(a bae sa Ramain a babay o Datu sa Palao)

DANGI

MALAILA

MAULANA

GAONGKI

(Bae sa Marawi)

DIPATUAN

Bae sa Kapai

(a mia

ALANGADI
una a sulutan sa marawi)

BAE SA SAMPORNA
(a wata o marohom rahmatollah sa taraka)

SIDIK A DATU BALINDONG JAMAN + BAE SA TALOG MARUHOM SIDICK +

MAYANO PINAO

Maruhom Sidick + Pinao

Maranowang

Tubilo Ambol Dimasangka Mling Kapwal

Anti Kaliagan

Sempad Maruki Tomarumpong

Sumndad Bunsek Bereng

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SIDIKADATU

AMAI ADAKAY

BATAONA

AMAI PAMANAY

MAGANAK

KAINAM

MAGORAON

TIMOAY

ZIPON MINUNGCO TALIPON

GAGA OLAY SANGO PANANDIGAN EMALAO MASINGER

LIMBOWAN ETHAY TALIONG TAMBAC

AMANTAR AMNDAG SOLAY ILAY

JANAL
PAMANAY

AMPUK

BALINDONG JAMAN+BAE SA TALOG

JANNATUM SA MARAWI + MAMOLAWAN

ANAP

MAILAN
MINOR PATHAMANAN SARO PAUTO TORONAIK BATINTING RAWATUN

BLANGAN
AROKID AGANI/ ORIENTAR

OLAD
SANGO BAKU POTRE PAYONG

ORUNGAO KADIDA MALANDI MADAYAN

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TESTIMONIALS ON CLAN ORGANIZING FROM THE COUNCIL OF ELDERS

Our endeavours will become a model at itoy kasintulad ng isang salamin na makikita ng bagong henerasyon kung papaano natin tinuligsa ang pagkakaisa , pagmamahalan at pagbibigayan. Ang ating mga ginagawa ay pagbibigay pugay sa ating mga ninuno dahil silay hindi nagkawatak-watak bagkos silay nagmamahalan at yun ang ating adhikain na masundan ang kanilang mga yapak upang lumiit ang ibat ibang suliranin ng ating komunidad tulad ng pagrami ng mga rido. Ang tulong ng mga donor tulad ng USAID at TAF ay hindi masuklian kailanman. Col. Khana B. Marabur (Ret. PA) -Maraming mabuting karanasan na nangyari bunga ng aming ginawa na pag-organisa sa Sultanate sa Marawi, kasama rito ang pag-resolba sa ibat ibang kaso na naharap ng nga elders Ang pag-organisa sa Sultabnate sa Marawi ay nangangahulugan na may pagkakataon pa na maibalik ang untiunting nawalang kaugalian ng mga Maranao tulad lamang ng pagkakaisa, pagpapahalaga, pagmamahalan, pagbibigayan, pagkakaibigan, at iba pa .Sultan Abdul Jabbar Rinibatan Clan organizing is not simple as we thought, as first elder of Sidikadatu clan who inspired and motivated Mr. Hamidullah Atar in this work, we passed through several pains and sacrifices in dealing with other clan elders. All discomfort and sacrifices we undertaken were fruitfully resulted to a very remarkable output in the whole clan. Thus, sense of volunteerism and sincerity to our peace initiative works will lead us to achieve our ultimate goal for having a peaceful society. Hadjah Jalilah Atar Gabriel Revival and reformation of the MSM customary law or taritib and Ijma is very essential epecilly that this generation has faced four justice systems and at least the young generation is partly involved in the process of codification of our Ijma and taritib. This could give them an idea how significant this is to our social activities and therefore they could preserve it. Datu Edres Mackno One way to promote equality and respect among clan members regardless of status in life is strengthening blood relations. I saw the uniqueness and beauty of real breathren in Islam here in our efforts. It needs also to have a program on the women like Seminars on anti-trafficking and violation of women because indeed, the real victims of maltreatment in our society are the women, so they must be empowered. Bae Hadjijah Langco Our sacrifices in our endeavors will be part of the history that will never be forgotten. We must strive hard to work for the betterment of our constituents so that the future generation will not be misled. Revival of the Traditional values and practices will help a lot to determine the formula in addressing the social problems facing by the Maranao society. Datu Somirado Pimping -Dahil sa dami ng miyembro ng Sultanate of Marawi (clan), hindi maiwasan na magkaroon ng ibat ibang klaseng banggaan na humahantong sa isang rido kung itoy hindi mabigyan ng matiwasay na solusyon na nanggagaling sa mga initiatibo ng mga kagalang-galang na miyembro ng pamilya. Napakalaking tulong ang programa ng RIDO Inc. sapagkat binibigyan nila ng halaga kung papaano matukoy ang blood relation ng Sultanate sa Marawi upang sa ganun ay lumiit ang mga rido sa mga lugar na nasasakupan ng mga miyembro ng Sultanate sa Marawi. Maraming salamat sa USAID at sa The Asia Foundation dahil sa kanila ay napunan ang aming mga adhikain. Shiekh Khalil Didaagun Our children were glad for what we are doing because they already traced their relatives in this clan. In this approach, we can at least prevent future conflict within our children and the coming generations.The unity of MSM is priceless for me. Right now, I learned and understand what clan I belong, much more to others.Thank you to the organizers. Dr. Mominah Midaya Abantas Ang natapos at kasalukuyang ginagampanan ng council of elders sa tulong ng Rido Inc. ay hango sa kautusan ng Islam, bagkos ito ay kautusan at obligasyon bilang isang Muslim na pangalagaan ang kapakanan ng clan upang mapanatili ang kapayapaan sa isang komunidad. Ustadj Muhammad Mustapha I wish to increase the wisdom and potentials of Mr. Atar who explored the organizing of this clan. Because of him, we traced our relatives in Lanao. We will continue our utmost support in this program because our fruitful output will be harvested by our children. Bae Fatima Deron Our effort is like a treasure! The real rich person is the one who knows his relatives. Part of the values I observed among my forefathers is kasiyap or caring for each other, and right now, I feel what they felt. I am a rich person because I already know hundreds of my relatives. Every time we gather, it seems, there is no ending; thats how I feel. Hadjah Mariam Mustapha Our reunion has posted three land marks for the Marawi Sultanate; refreshing in our collective memory its glorious past, reaffirmation in our hearts the sanctitified fact (taritib and Ijma) that binds us together to our ancestral Royal Blood line and building a unifying foundation for the future generations of the our clan. Our ancestors once said: It is not the title that crowns a man but rather it is the title holder who glorifies the title. Sultan Abdul Rahman Sultan Let us tie up our selves to utilize our potentials in achieving our designed goals so that we can step forward towards attaining our vision as a model Sultanate. We must be grateful that Pogi Atar did not surrender in organizing us considering the numerous clan members in the Sultanate of Marawi. And because of these efforts, many feuds in Lanao were settled, but we should also remember the support extended to us by the donors like The Asia Foundation and the USAID. Hon. Mesug Mowi The revival of the traditional values can help us towards the road for a peaceful society in Maranao areas. Strengthening the kinship system is a strong tool to avoid and minimize disputes, conflicts and violence among its clan members. Let us be proud to be part of the clan and continue hard working in designing the betterment of our generation in attaining peace and development particularly in the coming generation. Hon. Fiat Macarambon President,Sidika datu Development Foundation Inc.
The fundamental needs of human being include security aspect. Today, we must be stronger enough and well equip to face the various social problems in our society, which includes the instability of peace and order in our communities. As an agent for social change, we must cooperate to each other starting from the level of our family to understand the teaching of Islam about peace and values transformation. The hard working we did in the past shows that thru cooperation, we can reach our vision. So continue doing good deeds.

Hon. Anuar Marabur Senior City Councilor

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HOW WAS RIDO INC. CONCEPTUALIZED?

The Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities, Inc. (RIDO, Inc.) is almost a two-year old organization founded by people involved in peace building advocacy and dedicated to a full time or part time development work. Experiences of the founders of the organization showed that development processes in Maranao Muslim areas is more effectively achievable if traditional leaders are involved jointly to facilitate stronger cooperation. The organization started its operation on July 2005 by organizing the descendants of Sultanate of Marawi. Although it was a bulky and huge task for the clan members which was spearheaded by 13 municipalities in the Lanao province and the two cities Iligan and Marawi, RIDO Inc. volunteered and continued its struggle until they achieved remarkable changes and impact to the clan members. In our experience, we observed that clan organizing starts by profiling clan genealogy. It was amazing to note that there were many potential individuals from the traditional leaders who could help and support the resolution of conflict or rido in Lanao which is considered as virus or problem in building a peaceful society. The volunteers of RIDO inc. encountered different forms of verbal abuse, insults and maltreatment because some of the clan members believed that political agenda was behind our efforts. But time came when we have proven that their perception was wrong while we continued our attempts despite of criticism until everyone supported our work. In the process, we explored the opportunities to continue the endeavor till such time that we decided to create an organization that focuses on the prevention and resolution of conflict, because of the fact that no formal organization, government or non government, is materializing the program. According to one of the elders of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi, No matter how big the development is given to the Maranao community, if rido or clan feuds will not be addressed, all these development efforts will be useless. The first year of operation of the organization was supported by CAFOD thru its partner NGO namely the Grass Roots Peace Building Resource Center Inc. based in Lanao areas. In order to identify and facilitate the conceptual framework of the elders in the pilot clan organized, the UNMDP through the Act for Peace Program also supported the activity with the technical support from partner organization, the ECOWEB based in Lanao areas. The second year operation of the organization was the implementation of the identified priority programs of the clan elders, one of them is conflict resolution and this was supported and funded by USAID thru The Asia Foundation. For more than a year, RIDO Inc. through the Council of Elders of MSM, 25 major and minor cases of family and clan feuds in Lanao areas were resolved. Right now, the RIDO Inc. is working and exploring clan organizing with the vision of harnessing the role and strengthening the potentials of traditional structures, leaders and mechanisms for the prevention and resolution of family, clan and inter-ethnic conflicts and for the promotion of Culture of Peace.

RIDO BOOK LAUNCHING

From extreme left: Mr. Hamidullah Atar, Executive Officer of RIDO Inc., Dr. Steven Rood, TAF Country Representative, Mr. Steven Edminster, Governance Officer of USAID and Engr. Asgar Sani, Sultan of Marawi.

The Asia Foundation invited Abdul Hamidullah Atar, Executive Officer of Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities Inc. (RIDO) and Sultan of Marawi Engr. Asgar Sani who represented the council of elders of the descendants of the Sultanate of Marawi for the launching of the book entitled RIDO: Clan Feuding and Conflict Management in Mindanao on October 24, 2007 at Intercontinental Hotel, Manila. The occasion was graced by the authors of the Book, TAF partners for conflict resolution both NGOs and from academe, diplomats and other distinguished guest coming from different institutions. Mr. Atar led the invocation during the program followed by Dr. Steven Rood who welcomed the participants. A documentary presentation on rido by Mr. Teng Mangansakan entitled Beyond the River Bend followed. TAF Program Officer Wilfredo Torres III, the editor discussed the contents, significance and process in the studies. According to him, the book investigated the dynamics of clan conflicts with the intention of informing and helping design strategic interventions to address such conflicts. After him was the presentation of ceremonial copies to the authors, the conflict management stakeholders and the editors followed by the remarks from the authors represented by Prof. Abhoud Syed Lingga, Dr. Moctar Matuan, Mr.Guimael Alim and Dr. Ofelia Durate. After the authors remarks, a testimonial representing the mediators for conflict resolution was delivered by Sultan sa Marawi, Engr. Asgar Sani. He cited the different causes of rido in Mindanao particularly in Lanao. Election as he said was the main cause of rido in Lanao which the government must address. He appealed that the electoral process of the country must be reformed in order to reduce killings and other forms of violence particularly in Mindanao. Further, he extended his appreciation to the USAID and the TAF for their recognition of the traditional leaders in the Sultanate in Marawi who resolved several cases of rido in Lanao thru RIDO Inc. Meanwhile, Mr. Steven Edminster, Governance Officer of the USAID also gave an inspirational message during the occasion.

UGAT CONFERENCE

Mr. Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar, delegate from RIDO Inc. passed the selection process on the paper presentation on the Practice of Governance organized by the Anthropological Association in the Philippines. The paper presented by Mr. Atar was under the category of IP governance entitled The Meranao Customary Justice System. The study was presented during the 29th UGAT Annual Conference last October 25-27, 2007 at Ateneo De Zamboanga University, Zamboanga City. There were almost 70 participants who attended. According to Ugnayan Pang-Aghamtao, Inc. (UGAT) President, the Practice of Governance was chosen to be tackled in the said conference in order to share what new knowledge has been generated to help provide critical understandings on how Filipinos deal with or exercise power and authority, or the lack thereof, whether as one nation, individuals, groups or communities. The conference was a privilege for RIDO inc. to share their experiences in dispute settlements among Meranao society and discussed with them the tools and mechanisms undertaken in addressing the prevention and resolution of conflict within or outside their coverage area. The categories for the presentation include IP Governance, Conflict Resolution and Peace Building, State Violence, Eco-Governance and Heritage, & Education, Communication and Citizenship. There were 31 speakers who presented their respective studies coming from different local and international academic institutions.

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PHOTO DURING THE CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCESSES SETTLED Photo during the conflict resolution processes settled by RIDO Inc. BY THE ELDERS THROUGH Rido Inc. through the support of USAID with the elders through the support of USAID and The Asia Foundation

Poona Bayabao, Lanao del Sur

Molondo, LDS

Mapandi, Marawi City

MSU, Marawi City

Tambacan, Iligan City

Lilod, Madaya, Marawi City

Poona Bayabao, LDS

Baloi, Lanao del Norte

Pacalundo, Baloi, LDN

Dagudaban, Marawi City

Marawi City

Marantao, LDS

Sarimanok, Marawi City

Baloi, LDN

Pantao Ragat, LDN

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So Matilak ko lalag na igira mindalama na aya dansala iyan naso kambatabataa, so pantar ko ongangenna gona mithamanthaman na aya sendadaniyan naso kanggiginawae, iliyan a lindongan so mona katonganaya, na kota panarigan so psored sa paganay. The smooth and desirable language of the Maranaos towards unity of families and the wisdom behind ,the open and deeper communication among Maranaos resulted to good friendships. There is a need to look back to the value of family relationship.
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PICTURES OF COUNCIL OF ELDERS AND FAMILY REPRESENTATIVE OF MORIATAO SULUTAN SA MARAWI

COUNCIL OF ELDERS AND FAMILY REPRESENTATIVE OF MORIATAO SULUTAN SA MARAWI

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PHOTO DURING MEETINGS, CONSULTATIONS, PROFILING OF CLAN GENELOGY AND OTHER RELATED PEACE BUILDING ACTIVITIES WITH IN THE CLAN.

So Bayanek ko Petad a baden mipapayat na omakanggagapa na So Bayanek ko pethad a baden mipapembaloy a Bacolod a lidasan a rangiris. payat, na omakanggagapa na pembaloy a bacolod a lidasan rangiris. The dust and dirt that are dispersed in a the sand will accumulate and transform into a small mound that is hard to destroy.

Visit of Ms. Bianca as well as Mr. Willy Torres of TAF at Lanao & Rido Inc.

During meeting de avance and voters education facilitated by Rido Inc. and MSM elders at poblcaion saguiaran on April 2007

MEETINGS, CONSULTATIONS, PROFILING OF CLAN GENEALOGY AND OTHER RELATED PEACE BUILDING ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE CLAN
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Pamomolan sa Ranao so andang a kaplolot, Sapadan sa Iranaon so Mona Katonganaya, Iliyan a Lindongan so mona katonganaya, iliyan a lindongan so kapenggeginawae, kota a panarigan so kaiisa o bansa.

Pamomolan sa Ranao so andang a kaplolot, Sapadan sa Iranon so Mona Katonganaya, Iliyan a Lindongan so mona katonganaya, iliyan alindongan so kapenggeginawae, kota a panarigan so kaiisa o bansa. Should be planted in Ranao is the close ties among families and relatives which is also a trait of the Iranons. The values of friendship and oneness of race should be revitalized because these are keys to lasting peace and justice.
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PHOTO DURING INSTITUTIONAL STRENGHTENING AND CAPACITY SKILLS ENHANCEMENT AMONG CLAN ELDERS FROM MID YEAR OF 2005- 2007

Settlement of Family Feuds facilitated by the Council of Elders

INSTITUTIONAL STRENGHTENING AND CAPACITY SKILLS ENHANCEMENT AMONG CLAN ELDERS FROM MID YEAR OF 2005-2007
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Mapiyadun so tamok ka marayag sa mawatan, dii mindadaliay, labiron so bangsa ka maidan o sendigen na mareg o pangadapen ka maraorao man so bansa na mapantao so alaga.

Mapiyadun so tamok sa marayag sa mawatan, dii mindadaliay, labiron so bangsa ka maidan o sendigen na mareg o pangadapen ka maraorao man so bansa na mapantao so alaga. Wealth is good, it is very clear if it is far, but much more on Bangsa-prestige , if you lay it down, it is really wide like a field.
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The partial codified traditional customary Laws on enthronement procedures circulated within the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi was formulated by the 84 Council of Elders Clan Representatives during the 1st Convention of the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi last December 9-11, 2006 at Naawan Beach Resort. Such was modified and approved during the Strategic Planning of the elders and their representatives last August 25-27, 2007 at Crystal Inn, Iligan City. The said occasion was graced by Sultan sa Marawi Asgar Sani and other 68 members of the Council of Elders representing the three clans namely Sidikadatu, Balindong Jaman and Maruhom Sidik who unanimously signed and approved the following terms and provisions . A. VMG of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi VISION: A Sultanate with an established authority and power, with a sense of accountability and responsibility governed by Taritib and Ijma traditional system in accordance with Islamic Law, promulgated through consensus of Elders; with mutual linkages and cooperation to the government agencies and other institutions for the attainment of freedom, peace and justice. MISSION: To uphold the MSM traditional values, system, and empowered socio-economic development geared in achieving peace and development GOAL: Revival of Taritib and Ijma and traditional justice system in accordance with the Shariah Law; ensuring the promotion and recognition of traditional honorable titles by the government and other institutions. B. CONFERING TITLES AND DEFINING FUNCTION OF THE POSITIONS List of Current Traditional title holders of 1. SULUTAN SA MARAWI Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi a. He is the Chief Executive of the 19 Clans of Buadi Sacayo (POMPONGAN Balindong Jaman A MARAWI) Sultan sa Marawi- Engr. Asgar Sani Bae sa Marawi-Bae Monera Sani Sumndad b. He is a member of the 28 Royal Sultanates Dowapolo ago walo Potri Mamor sa Marawi- Bae Faridah Batugan Mindalano Pangianampay sa Marawi- Bae Rohanifah Romero Sani ambabaya ko Taritib ko pat a phangampong sa ranao (LEGISLATIVE Bae a Waris sa Marawi-Supv.Dalima Ambie Indol ASSEMBLY) Sidikadatu c. Confers pertinent titles on aspirants within the jurisdiction of the MSM; Cabugatan sa Marawi- Atty. Subair Guinthum Mustapaha Bae a Labi sa Marawi- Hadja Jalilah Atar Gabriel d. Acts on complaints of a member of MSM before these are filed in court; Dr. Mindaya Tawano Abantas e. Acts on problems occurring between an MSM member and a nonBae a Labi a adil a gaus sa Marawi- Bae Bolawan Tobacan Ampuan sa Marawi- Datu Makakiling Bayanan member; Bae a Diamla sa Marawi- Bae Casana Manaleseg f. In his absence, other titles MAYBE conferred by the Datu sa Marawi or the Maruhom Sidik Masiricampo;. Mama sa Marawi Datu Hashim Lantong Poona Bae a Labi sa Marawi- Hadja Fatima Marabur g. The Sultans term of office is 8 years , upon the resignation of the Bae a Labi sa Marawi- Bae Lauli Dimapunung incumbent Sultan Asgar Sani. Hadja MoniraSumndad Rogong 2. CABUGATAN SA MARAWI a. Takes over the leadership in the absence of Sultan b. Exercises authority over the Mama sa Marawi to carry out the order of the Sultan c. Monitors the developments in Marawi d. Appoints members to monitor conflicts or activities in areas outside Marawi where there are MSM members. e. The term of office is 8 years the same as for Sultan of Marawi. 3. MAMA SA MARAWI a. Acts as liaison of the Sultan b. Acts as secretary of the Sultan c. Relays the message and orders of Sultan to the constituents d. The term of office is also 8 years. C. Qualifications of the nominees for Sultan , Cabugatan, and Mama sa Marawi) aspiring for the titles/position of authority 1. Born to both Muslim parents (one or both is/are descendant/s of the 1st Sultan of Marawi) 2. Between 18-60 years old 3. In case of a Sultan, he must be a resident of Marawi City. Other title holders may be residents of areas within Lanao del

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Sur and Lanao del Norte. 4. Physically, mentally and spiritually fit to lead a. Not a drug pusher/user b. With good attitude; honest, approachable and service-oriented 5. Financially capable 6. Educational attainment a. Literate; can understand and articulate English or Arabic 7. Can represent the Sultanate and the clan locally and internationally 8. Commitment, sincerity, and care for the members of MSM. D. 1 Identified other significant Traditional Titles, Positions and Responsibilities of the title holders with in respective clan. Titles for women Roles, Function and Responsibilities

Balindong Jaman clan

1. Bae sa Marawi a. b. c. d. Support all the activities and undertakings of the sultan Assist the Sultan in the Mosque for development and improvement Spearhead the mosque beautification Spearhead in solicitation and sourcing for the Masjid

2. Potre Maamor sa Marawi

a. Support all the activities and undertakings of the sultan b. Assist the Sultan in the improvement and administration of Madrasah c. Spearhead the beautification of the Madrasah d. Solicits fund for the Madrasah

3. Pangianampay sa Marawi

a. Support all the activities and undertakings of the sultan b. Assist in the beautification of the community c. Cleanliness and sanitation Leads in the Continuous education of the women taalim) a. Support all the activities and undertakings of the sultan b. Assist the Sultan in sustaining peace and Development in the community c. Plans and conducts livelihood training among the women to augment family income

4. Bae a Waris Sa Marawi

Sidikadatu Clan
1. Bae a Labi sa Marawi 2. Bae a Labi a Gaus 3. Bae a Diamla sa Marawi a. Role Model (Rawaten),Leader, Decision Maker and Financer (By Administration) b. In a wedding she lays the carpet c. Collect Pagayanan d. Practice religious traditional activities such as Eidl Adha and Edil Fitr e. During Morod, she celebrates Rabi ul Awwal (Morod a Datu) Rabi ul Akhir (Morod a Bae) Jamad ul Ula (Morod for Traveller) Jamad ul Akhir (Morod for Miskin)

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Maruhom Sidik Clan

1. Poona Bai a Labi sa Marawi 2. Bae a Labi sa Marawi a. Practice Islamic tenets like Eidl Fitr and Edil Adha b. Intelligent and Fully support the resolution of problem in the community including rido and all those related to development. c. Practices Maranao tradition like tibao, support those who marry, etc.

D. 2 Other Important traditional titles of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi for men identified are follows to wit:

Name of the Clan

Sidikadatu Maruhom sidik

Titles
1. Ampuan sa Marawi 2. Ampatua sa Marawi 3. Diamla sa Marawi 1. Sangcopan sa Marawi

Note: There are also other Traditional Titles enthroned exclusively only to the selected sub clan in the
Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi like Panondiongan sa Marawi and the rest.

E. SELECTION PROCESS IN ASPIRING TRADITIONAL POSITIONS WITH IN THE MORIATAO SULUTAN SA MARAWI SUCH AS THE SULTAN, CABUGATAN AND MAMA SA MARAWI: 1. The titles are traditionally rotated among the three clans: Balindong Jaman, Sidik A Datu, and Maruhom Sidik. 2. The present Sultan sa Marawi comes from the Balindong Jaman Clan, the present Cabugatan sa Marawi hails from Sidik A Datu Clan, while the present Mama sa Marawi is a member of Maruhom Sidik. 3. The position holder is chosen by consensus of the clan. 4. Upon end of the term or upon death of the Sultan, the Cabugatan will be acting in capacity as Sultan until such a way that the succeeding clan will be proclaimed as new Sultan sa Marawi. The same thing Mama sa Marawi will assume as Cabutagan sa Marawi. 5. All existing titles of a baes under MSM should be rotated in their respective clan. 6. Should the present Cabugatan sa Marawi who comes from Sidick a Datu clan aspire to become the next Sultan, the aspirant must secure the agreement of his clan. 7. As soon as any clan has selected its respective leaders, it shall present the leader to the other clans for their agreement. 8. The new Sultan will be crowned on MOROD A DATU. 9. In case, the succeeding clan will have conflict to select their Sultan, the 2 clan will interfere in order to amicably settle their conflict. F. VALUES CLARIFICATION OF THE MSM: 1. Affirm only one Torogan, lama pasandalan or royal flag. 2. Recognition of only one Sultan sa Marawi during the Sultans Ascendancy 3. Traditional assembly (panik) to the torogan of the Sultan sa Marawi during Eidl Fitr and Eidl Adha. 4. One day offering of food (Kathotong) to the jamah during Ramadhan 5. Respect to the sovereign authority of the Sultan to settle conflict 6. Extension of generosity to the Sultan sa Marawi at times of new appointments or conferment of royal titles 7. Reservation of a ganta of meat for the Sultan sa Marawi when member of 19 clan of Buadi Sacayo women gets married. 8. Sole authority of the Sultan to confer, confirm, and proclaim royal titles from among the Descendants.

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RIDO IN ACTION
A. CLAN ORGANIZING AND INSTITUTIONAL STRENGHTENING FOR CAPACITY SKILLS ENHANCEMENT From June 2005-October 2005, a series of consultations and meetings of elders for the compilation of the Sidikadatu clan genealogy was conducted. The first elder who supported RIDO Inc. in the conceptualization of this endeavor was Bae of Marawi Jalilah A. Gabriel who sacrificed much for the success of the reunion. Thirteen formal meetings were held at several venues and finally on October 11, 2005, the First Grand Reunion of the clan was launched at Hascon Court, Mapandi, Marawi City and graced by more than 2,000 clan members. The signing of the clan genealogy by the council of elders, presentation of plaque of appreciation to the clan members who rescued for the released of the kidnap victim, Mr. Ting Oate, led by former Vice Mayor Janodin Tanggote and discussion for the plans of the clan were the highlights of the activity. Before the reunion, the council of elders of this clan had already started the facilitation of major and minor rido cases within the clan including elopement, land disputes, murder, molestation, and other related offenses. After the reunion, the council of elders continued their program on dispute settlement and other traditional activities such as Katatabanga, Kapamagogopa and other significant Maranao ancestral practices. Cabugatan sa Marawi, Atty. Subair Mustapha attended the occasion. From December 2005-May 2006, the organizing of the Maruhom Sidik clan including consultations, identification of its council of elders, and profiling of their clan genealogy took place. On May 1, 2006, the Grand Reunion of the clan was successfully inaugurated and participated by more than 1,500 individuals. The highlights of the ceremonial events included the election and oath taking of the newly elected officers of the clan, acquaintances and messages from the family representatives who expressed their remarks on the importance of the gathering in relation to peace building initiatives. Honorable Hashim Lantong as Mama sa Marawi was the special guest of said activity. On July 9, 2006, the Sidikadatu clan opened their 1st General Assembly at Manican Hall and was attended by more than 600 individuals. Part of the momentous portions in the said event was the oath taking ceremony of the newly elected officers of the clan headed by Hon. Fiat Macarambon as President, the settlement of the major rido or conflict between Didaagun and Rangaig families which was facilitated by the elders. In addition, their Vision, Mission and Goals were conceptualized. No less than Hon. Omar Solitario Ali, former Mayor of the Islamic City of Marawi was the guest speaker of the gathering. On September 16, 2006, the Peace Caravan of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi from the Municipality of Baloi to the Poblacion of the Municipality of Pantao Ragat was carried out. The theme of the motorcade was Mainstreaming Peace and Development in Maranao Tradition... More than 500 participants from different sub-clans and municipalities in Lanao joined the event. The Sultan of Marawi, Sultan of Pantao Ragat, Sultan of Pantar, and other traditional leaders were present. The Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of MSU Main Campus, Dr. Macabangkit Ati and other professionals also

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witnessed this rare assembly. Other observers include NGO partners like ECOWEB Inc., CAFOD and media representatives. The said Peace Caravan was very successful despite minimal financial support from partner institutions. From July 2006-November 2007, the organizing of the third clan, Balindong Jaman, ensued. Consultations, meetings and consolidation of their clan genealogy were the highlighted activities. On November 11, 2006, their grand reunion was held and attended by more than 1,500 individuals and identified council of elders at Hascon Court, Marawi city. Oath taking of the elders, acquaintances of the youth, signing of the final validation of their clan genealogy and commitment of elders to pursue their peace advocacy were among the features of the occasion. The Sultan of Marawi, Engr. Asgar Sani, stressed the importance on tracing genealogy and revival of the adat of the Moriatao Sulutan of Marawi in order to strengthen the relationship of its clan members and prevent future conflict. From December 2006- January 2007, four major activities of Moriatao Sultan of Marawi were funded and supported by UNMDP-Act for Peace Program thru Rido Inc. namely the Convention of the Council of Elders, Peace Caravan and Grand Gathering, Sports Peace for the Youth and Seminar-Workshop for the selected women of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi. On December 11-12, 2006 the first historical Convention of the MSM Council of Elders was realized at Naawan Beach Resort, Misamis Occidental. At least eighty (80) council of elders took part in the endeavor. The highlights of the event included the identification of the traditional titles existing in the Moriatao Sultan of Marawi based on the Taritib and Ijma practiced by their ancestors, identification of the roles and functions of each title, history of the inherent titles, validation of the clan genealogy of the three clan namely Sidikadatu, Balindong Jaman and Maruhom Sidik, settlement of several issues and concerns related to enthronement procedures in the traditional titles inherent to Moriatao Sultan of Marawi, creation of structure within the Sultanate that will effectively run the institution and finally identification of their Vision, Mission and Goals. The meaningful gathering was visited by Ms. Diosita Andot who explained the program of UNMDP particularly on its component, the Act for Peace Programme. She elaborated also that their program serves to respond and sustain the development efforts in conflict areas and in conflict vulnerable areas. The congregation ended splendidly. After the Convention, a Peace Caravan together with a Grand Gathering of the three organized clans followed. More than 100 vehicles joined the Peace Caravan from the Municipality of Saguiaran, Lanao Del Sur to the Mindanao State University Main Campus, Marawi City. The Peace Caravan started past eight in the morning of December 17, 2006 and culminated by an assembly of the clan members at the MSU gymnasium. More than 2,000 members attended. No less than acting MSU President, Dr. Ricardo de Leon, graced the occasion. Samira Gutoc and Pogi Atar facilitated the program

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which started with a Quran reading by Ustadj Sidik Pathamanan and followed by a Welcome Address delivered by Dr. Macabangkit Ati. Right after him Dr. de Leon delivered a talk emphasizing MSU as a University will serve as a social laboratory for inter- cultural and inter-generational quest for lasting peace in Lanao especially in resolving rido through the process based on traditional laws. Col. Khana Marabur, Executive Vice President of Maruhom Sidik further elaborated the rationale and sole purpose of the gathering. Messages from the representatives of the council of elders from each clan were heard. Partners in development work including CAFOD which supported RIDO Inc., MSU-IPDM, ECOWEB and media men also gave their inspirational messages through designated representatives. The MSM through RIDO Inc. distributed goods to the seven selected members of the clan who belonged to the marginalized families as part of the commitment of the clan to extend basic support to its members. Thereafter, the Distribution of Plaque of Appreciation to the supporting agencies took place. Atty. Subair Mustapha, Cabugatan of Marawi, closed the program. In the afternoon, parlor games entertained the members of the clan especially the youth. Strengthening of ties among members of the clan was the aim of the activities. Mass oath taking of the entire council of elders of the clan was the main part of the program. After the grand gathering was the Sports Peace Activity among the youth. It was designed to reinforce the relationship of the youth members of the clan to further prevent rido incidences in the future. The theme of the activity was Creating a Peaceful Future: Strengthening the Youth Now. The sports peace was done at the MSU Gymnasium, Marawi city last December 23-28, 2006. The sports events were divided into four categories namely Basketball, Badminton, Track and Field and Table Tennis. Fourteen (14) teams participated the Basketball game representing different sub-clans of Moriatao Sulutan of Marawi. The team from Balindong Jaman representing the Municipality of Baloi got the championship crown, followed by the same clan representing Bangon, Marawi City which placed second, the team from Sidikadatu representing Saguiaran received the third place while the team from Maruhom Sidik clan representing Marawi City garnered the fourth place. The occasion was incredibly amazing and enjoyable. Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. showed support through his presence during the championship game and awarding ceremony. On January 6-8, 2007, the Seminar-Workshop on Defining the Role of Women in Sultanate of Womens Organization was conducted at Villa Lacida Beach Resort, Linamon, Lanao Del Norte. The threeday workshop was participated by 38 selected women from the three clans. Dr. Dibsy Maruhom from Sidikadatu clan, Fiscal Elias Yusoph from Maruhom Sidik clan, Journalist Samira Gutoc from Maruhom Sidik clan, ED Regina Antiquisa of ECOWEB Inc. and ED Hamidullah Atar of Rido Inc. were the facilitators of the entire activity. Inputs of the Seminar- Workshop included the role of gender; the Maranao women according to tradition and Islam; the contemporary situation of women in Maranao society; the laws protecting womens rights; and the womens rights and obligations in Islam. The participants defined the role of women titles in the Sultanate of Marawi and action planning were some of the actual processes undertaken. As an outcome, the participants came up with their plans as their future intervention in the Sultanate of Marawi to address their VMG formulated last MSM convention. Each participant showed commitment to pursue the crafted plans through marking the wall. On March 2007, The USAID thru the Asia Foundation supported the program of RIDO Inc. thru the initiative of Bae Samira Gutoc Tomawis, a member of the clan with Mr. Willy Torres III, TAF program manager who evaluated the capacity of the organization. The project approved entitled Institutionalize Maranao Traditional structure for peace and Development. The project categorizes into three major components namely Capacity enhancement and Institutional development of MSM structures, clan-based public advocacy for peace building

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and cultivation of peace culture among youth. However, the main focus of the project was on conflict resolution processes in the areas covered by the Sultanate of Marawi. The project span was only for seven months. The first major activity conducted was the Seminar on Good Governance and Voters Education last April 28, 2007 at Madrasah, Poblacion Saguiaran, Lanao Del Norte. Hundreds of participants and elders of the clan joined the activity. Two mayoralty candidates from the Municipality of Saguiaran were also there. Each was given a chance to speak on their priority programs and platforms for good governance. Marawi Citys Sultan Asgar Sani gave an inspirational talk urging participants to vote based on their conscience and for candidates who will untiringly work for development and peace. Other dignified elders of the clan called for a genuine, clean and honest election in the Municipalities covered by the members of the Sultanate of Marawi. On June 9-11, 2007, a Culture of Peace Workshop among the youth was successfully conducted. Sixty-eight (68) youth representatives from the three clans participated the program. At the end of the activity, the youth designed their plans and proposed peace intervention measures for the clans, set up their officers who will lead them in the realization of their plans, and undertook a series of inputs on the teachings of Islam about peace, values and ethics. In addition, they were taught on the process of mediation and other tools for conflict management. This activity had a tremendous impact since they continued the meetings and coordination thereafter. On June 23-25, 2006, a Training Workshop on Conflict Management was conducted. Forty-eight (48) selected representatives of the elders from the descendants of the Sultanate of Marawi came. At the end of the workshop, the participants set up structures for proper coordination and networking of every Municipality covered by the clan to ensure effective collaboration when rido occurs. At the same time, they had identified their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, challenges and recommendations for strengthening local structure and mechanism for dispute settlements. The participants shared their skills and experiences on conflict resolution and finally they recognized the key elements needed for the resolution and reduction of rido in their respective areas. On August 9, 2007, Phase Two of the Seminar on Islamic Governance was initiated at Poblacion of Poona Piagapo, LDN. The theme of the activity was the Role of Muslim Ummah toward Attaining Peace and Development. This was participated by more than two hundred individuals majority of them were women who belonged to a group called Jamiatul Muslimah whose objectives are to strengthen and enhance the knowledge on Islam not only on the practice but also the proper ways of living in consonance with the lifestyle of Nabi Mohammed Salallaho Alaihi Wassalam (S.A.W.). The gathering was one way to increase the knowledge of the clan members about Islam to intensify their faith to the Almighty Allah and understand peace building and the negative implications of rido. There were two Muslim scholars tapped to discuss issues related to the theme of the seminar. Sultan Rinibatan joined to discuss the objectives of the activity.

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On August 25-27, 2007, the Strategic Planning Workshop took place at Crystal Inn, Iligan City. The Asia Foundation Program Officer Willy Torres III graced the event. The activity was actively participated by sixtyseven (67) council of elders from the three clans of Moriatao Sultan of Marawi. Traditional titleholders of the clan headed by Sultan Asgar Sani also participated. As part of the outcome of the workshop, the council of elders was able to assess and review the Taritib and Ijma pertaining to the enthronement procedure in the Sultanate System of Marawi including values clarification, selection process, and principles among others. The participants also finalized their plans and programs drafted during the previous activities. They also identified the plans and strategies to address the weaknesses and threats within the clan which hindered them to operate effectively. In general, the workshop was lively, fruitful and participative. On October 14, 2007, the first ever Grand Kandori and traditional visit of the descendants of Sultan of Marawi (Panik) was successfully held and attended by more than four hundred individuals and council of elders from clan members of Sidikadatu, Maruhom Sidik, and Balindong Jaman representing their respective municipalities. The activity also incorporated the celebration of Eidl Fitr and recognition of the elders who committed and settled 24 major and minor clan and family feuds resolved by Rido Inc. thru the clan elders. The American people funded the said occasion, thru the USAID and the effort of the The Asia Foundation. Dr. Rood Steven, TAF country representative, and his program manager for conflict management, Willy Torres III, witnessed the ceremonial event. Other visitors like Dr. Jamael Kamlian from MSU-IIT, candidate for doctors degree from Germany, Ms. Birte Bretch, Anthropologist Monalinda Doro were also present in the occasion. Dr. Rood stressed out that the achievement of the elders in disputes settlement was achieved because of hard work, genuine and sincere dialogue. He added also that Muslims and Christians in this world have common advocacy and that is forming a peaceful society. Sultan Asgar Sani, Atty. Subair Mustapha, Col. Khana Marabur, Shiekh Khalil Didaagun, Ustadj Muhammad Mustapha, Hon. Fiat Macarambon, Dr. Mominah Mindaya Abantas, Bae Samira Gutoc Tomawis, Sultan Abdul Jabbar Rinibatan, Ustadj Sidik Pethamanan, Engr. Momit Tomawis and other elders also gave their inspirational messages. On October 15, 2007, the Grand reunion of the Bae sa Radapan clan was carried out at Poblacion, Poona Piagapo, LDN. Other members of this clan came from the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi. Guest, Sultan Asgar Sani discussed with the clan members the importance of preserving the adat and traditional practices among Maranaos. ABSCBN interviewed Other visitors who attended the ceremonial event were Dr. Steven Rood, TAF Country Dr. Steven Rood representative, and his program Manager Willy Torres III, Birte Bretch from Germany, and other elders from Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi. RIDO Inc. helped the preparation of the reunion and most significantly, the consolidation and profiling of their clan genealogy as part of their commitment to explore the clan organizing in Lanao province so that it increase the numbers of grassroots peace advocates from the group of traditional leaders who will address the resolution and prevention of conflict within the clan coverage area. The occasion was participated by the clan elders headed by the Sultan sa Radapan, Disalongan Polala, and hundreds of clan members. The Grand Reunion aimed to strengthen the unity and relationship among clan members so that future conflict can be avoided.

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B. CONFLICT RESOLUTION (Funded by TAF thru USAID) The major objective of the project funded by USAID and TAF thru Rido Inc. was conflict resolution. It aimed to decrease the number of rido and resolve various conflicts including minor and major rido existing in Lanao areas specifically those covered by the Sultanate of Marawi. From April 2007 to October 2007, there were 19 major and minor rido cases resolved and facilitated by Rido Inc. thru the Council of Elders of Moriatao Sultan sa Marawi. Nine (9) out of nineteen belonged to the major conflicts or rido while others were considered as minor or potential conflict. Major conflicts included reckless imprudence resulting to homicide; land Presentation of token Maranao disputes resulting to murder; sarcastic words and insults resulting Sword to Dr. Steven Rood given by to murder; political rivalry and vote buying resulting to frustrated the Sultan sa Radapan and other murder; reckless imprudence and miscommunication resulting to elders from the clan serious injuries and grave threat; pornography resulting to public scandal; collision of two vehicles resulting to two consecutive riots and grave threats; political rivalry resulting to multiple murders, injuries and accidental shooting resulting to multiple injuries. On the other hand, minor conflicts included the following namely miscommunication resulting to grave threat; extortion and physical injuries; threat for the implementation of project at Poona Piagapo; elopement; forced marriage; reckless imprudence resulting to homicide; collision of two vehicles resulting to injuries; reckless imprudence resulting to serious injuries and shotgun marriage resulting to grave threat. Outputs of these conflicts were 8 people killed, 12 people killed due to false guys (minilingo) and 28 injuries inflicted. Resolution of other rido cases by RIDO inc. thru the Council of Elders was done prior to the engagement with funding partners including molest, kidnapping, kidnap for ransom, murder and fraternity conflict. C. ACCESS TO LIVELIHOOD AND BASIC SERVICES Rido Inc. also helped clan members to access livelihood and infrastructure projects. It also facilitated several trainings for social preparation including barangay consultations and participatory planning, culture of peace workshop, disaster management trainings and other significant trainings needed during the implementation of their project. The pilot areas were the five Barangays of Poona Piagapo namely Barangay Poblacion, Tanglaw, Piyangamangaan, Kablangan and Pantaon. The social preparation conducted for this project was the first six-month operation of the ECOWEB in the area funded by Caritas Australia. D. LITERACY PROGRAM Rido Inc. extended some support to selected Madrasah in the areas covered by the members of the Sultanate of Marawi. The pilot project covered the Municipality of Saguiaran. Rido Inc. aimed to increase the knowledge and literacy level of the clan members particularly on the Islamic thought without the support of government institutions. Rido Inc. further believed that if only majority of people in Lanao are educated, it may be easier to prevent and resolve rido.

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HISTORY OF MSM ADAT & GENEALOGY

The people of Lanao namely Meranao were categorized into four confederations namely Baloi, Unayan, Bayabao, and Masiu. Each territory has its own Sultans and legislators who exercise the Sultanate governance. There are a total of 16 Panoroganan which literally means Decision Makers and 28 members of the legislative assembly Mbabaya ko Taritib or Takdir distributed in the four areas. The Bayabao is divided into three areas namely the Poona Bayabao, Mala a Bayabao, and Lumba a Bayabao. Mala a Bayabao, it has only 4 members of the Mbabaya ko Taritib or legislative body from the 28 legislative bodies of Lanao including Marawi, Marantao, Soba a Buntong and Antanga Didagen while only 2 members of Panoroganan sa Ranao or decision makers that is, the Sultan of Ramain and Ditsaan. In Marawi, their ancestor was Datu Gomisa who has 5 children (Lima a datu a phumagsopa sa Marawi) distributed in the area of Marawi namely Tobacan sa Sakayo, Saolangan sa Toros, Boriongan sa Bacolod, Makalilay sa Madaya, and Timbang sa Guimba. The descendants of Sakayo have 19 children distributed in Marawi and Saguiaran where the MSM belong to. The First Sultan of Marawi was Datu Alangadi, married to Bae sa Samporna, a daughter of Maruhom Rahmatollah of Taraka. They were blessed with four children --- Sidikadatu, Balindong Jaman, Maruhom Sidik and Mayano. Why were only the descendants of Datu Alangadi and Bae sa Samporna enthroned as the only Sultan of Marawi? When Datu Alangadi was married to Bae sa Samporna, they had planned to visit Marawi, the place of Datu Alangadi. In a part of the Meranao traditional practice among newlyweds called Lawiin where the wife of a Datu or Sultan visits the place of her husband, the grooms family will prepare a celebration as a symbol of respect and warm welcome to the clan.

While inside a boat approaching Marawi, Bae sa Samporna stopped the boat and stayed at the ozon, an area near the lake port, and refused to proceed. The Datu and Bae in Marawi at that time wondered why the newlyweds stopped the boat and refused to step out. The present Datus in Marawi including Masiricampo and among others sent delegation to the newlyweds asking the reason why they stayed at Ozon. Bae sa Samporna told the negotiators that they will not step out until all Datus and Bae in Marawi especially their leaders will take oath by swearing to the Quran that only their descendants will be recognized and enthroned as Sultan of Marawi forever, otherwise Bae sa Samporna will go back to her village and promise not to set foot in Marawi. Because of the peculiar values among Meranao especially with emphasis on respect, friendship and importance of blood relations or Bangsa, the demand of Bae sa Samporna was granted. Accordingly, the incumbent Datu and Bae during that time swore to the Dibolodan, a traditional term of the Quran used by the Sultan and other Datus in Marawi whenever they settle conflict by putting their hands on the Holy Book and swear some statements. Therefore, they swore that all the adat and agreements set by the Datu and Bae in Marawi regarding the adat of Sultan of Marawi was included that only the descendants of Datu Alangadi and Bae sa Samporna will be enthroned as Sultan of Marawi and other agreements should be respected and followed. Should this adat be violated, he or she will be cursed and punished by Allah because these passed thru a historic myth that agreements are also anchored thru a traditional belief that is done with the following provisions: 1. Sindagan sa Odang 2. Linilayan sa Gi; 3. Piyotolan sa Balagen 4. Biyomboran sa Ombi 5. Inibutad so Quran ago Dibolodan; 6. Pisaan sa Orak; 7. Tinimbakan sa Laila; 8. Biyothosan sa Alad

FEATURES

Clan celebrates
Council of Representatives, MSM

Samira Gutoc

Like the gatherings of yesteryears, Buadi Sakayo was alive again with families of Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi (MSM) gathering for a Grand Kandori last October 14, 2007 led by Sulutan sa Marawi Asghar Sani and organized by the MSM association. MSM members from as far as Pantao a Ragat on the border of Lanao del Norte came to listen to clan representatives and elders talk of unity and the old practices of ascendants in sharing the joys and pains of each one. RIDO Inc. Executive Director Hamidullah Atar urged the members to pray for peace in the midst of the barangay elections. In a research conducted by The Asia Foundation (TAF), rido is one of the most serious forms of conflict in Mindanao, affecting the daily lives of people. TAF Country Representative Dr. Steven Rood and conflict Resolution Program Officer Wilfredo Torres joined the Marawi rites. Another foreign researcher, a German student Ms. Brecht, joined visitors in the traditional festivity. One of the many fulfillments in representing The Asia Foundation is being able to experience special occasions like

this, that celebrate rich cultures and traditions throughout the Philippines, particularly in Muslim Mindanao. We are very happy to join you in celebrating this joyous Hari Raya season. And it is an honor to be a part of this important event, Dr. Rood, special guest of honor, said. This grand kandori is truly inspirational for all of us and provides a spark of hope that a just and sustained peace can be achieved in Mindanao through hard work and genuine, sincere dialogue, he added. The Asia Foundation, funded by USAID, has supported Muslim organizations like Cotabato-based United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) and Marawi-based Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities (RIDO) settle clan feuds and prevented the escalation of violent conflicts. In 2007, within a span of eight months, The Foundation was able to support capacity building for 253 local peace mediators, and its local partners were able to resolve 23 rido cases. Mindanao, home to a majority of the countrys Muslims, is a region suffering from poor infrastructure, high poverty, and violence that has claimed the lives of more than 120,000 in the last three decades.

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Two MSM youth members sent to U.S. for study grants

Shandato Abantas and Laynie Rangaig are two members of the Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi youth who presently in the United States for an America Field Services (AFS) Intercultural Programs Philippines Scholarships. Said sponsor is a non-profit corporation with headquarters in New York, New York, USA (with its affiliate organizations, collectively referred to as AFS). Through intercultural learning programs, AFS assists participating students, families, volunteers and community members in acquiring skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to continue meaningful relations in a culturally diverse, increasingly interdependent world. Shandato and Laynie are expected to learn about the culture of the Americans and their style of education. They are immersed on American culture for a better understanding of the west. According to Shandato, the program is so far very helpful for him to understand the American people. He cant afford to discriminate or misinterpret them. He also emphasized the importance of PEACE and DEVELOPMENT for the Maranao communities. He feels that United States taught him how to value peace above all else. Aside from the fact that he is learning from the Americans, the latter are also learning from him. He showed the Americans what a Muslim Maranao is really like. He practices five times daily prayers and even showed his host family how a Muslim fasts during the month of Ramadhan. The parents of Shandato appreciate him much and they told AFS how he eliminated his discriminative stance towards Americans because of Shandatos presence in their communities. Moriatao Sulutan sa Marawi is proud of Shandato and Laynie because they are learning and forwarding their advocacy on PEACE and DEVELOPMENT by bridging the gaps among different cultures and religions.

A Decade of Exploratory Talks between the MILF and GRP and the Future of Peace in Mindanao
Masbud Skip Gaima II

The recent violent confrontation between the Philippine troops and the MILF Mujahideen in Western Mindanao particularly in the war-torn islands of Basilan and Sulu, has claimed the lives of scores of marine soldiers as well as MILF guerilla operatives. This sad segment of the long-delayed peace talks remind the people that anytime war may flare up in Mindanao because there is no progress in the back-door negotiations since the break-up of exploratory talks last year. The Philippine government with its extensive media coverage of the burial rites of its fallen soldiers aroused the emotional sensitivity of he unthinking Filipino masses and proclaimed said soldiers as heroes for they were killed in line of duty without emphasizing the sinister plots of the Filipino national leaders and the military generals in perpetrating the conflict in furtherance of these government officials of their selfish interests. Had the peace accord been signed by both parties, there would have been peace in the Bangsamoro homeland. The military adventurism in the Muslim lands would be a non-issue if peace has been given a chance, a peace which is based on social justice and right to selfdetermination of the Bangsamoro people. The more than a decade of on and off talks between the GRP and MILF since both parties opted for table negotiation to end the war in Mindanao, the people are asking with dismay why up to this time no peace

pact has been signed. What went wrong with the peace process? What refrained both parties from reaching a political settlement? At this time and age, the Mindanaos peoples regardless of ethnic identity and faith must have a common stand and urge the parties concerned to resolve the conflict the soonest possible time. The irresponsible and baseless sensationalization by media practitioners to the conflict which adds insult of the volatile peace must be condemned and should be dealt with accordingly. The insistence of the Philippine government for the enhanced autonomy as its political offer is regarded as a blatant departure from the consensus points agreed upon by both parties in the exploratory talks. The MNLF experience about autonomy which is tailored by the Philippine government is a convincing testimony that political autonomy cannot be made a solution to the Mindanao problem. The GRP and MILF talks with the facilitation of the government of Malaysia had agreed in principles to find a political formula which is acceptable for both sides. They dubbed it as the new formula, a political option which is in line with the general interests of the Bangsmoro people. Any political design which is not for the interest of peace and good future of the Bangsamoro is deemed as another chapter for the disordered condition in Morolandia.

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The Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W

by Hamidullah Atar The Job of the Prophet was over. An announcement was made that Prophet would perform the pilgrimage. It looked as if the whole countrys adult population had turned up to accompany him to Makkah. The Prophet left Madinah with one hundred fourteen thousand followers. On 8 Zulhijjah, 10.A.H, the Prophet stayed in Mina along with all Muslims. After the morning prayer the next day he and others moved to the plain of Arafah. In the afternoon, he rode his camel and from its back delivered a sermon: Today all the undesirable customs of the ignorant people are under my feet. The age old spirit of tribal vengeance had ended. Today I am the first to forego a claim for compensation in respect of the killing of Rabiah bin Harith bin Abdul Muttalib. Usuary has been banned and my uncle Abbas shall be the first to give up his claim to the interest on his money lent to the people in the past. Fear Allah in matters pertaining to women. You have a right on women and they have theirs on you. Be Just and Fair to your slaves. Feed them with what yourself eat. Cloth them just as you do for yourself. Life and property of every one is a sacred until the day of resurrection as today in this sacred month and this sacred city. Every Muslim is a brother to another. All Muslims are brothers. No Arab is superior to a non Arab or vice versa. You are the sons of Adam made on earth. Allah has granted rights to everyone. No special will shall be accepted in respect to those rights. The son belongs to a man on whose bed he is born. Adultery deserves stoning to death. Allah will take care of their accounting. Loan must be repaid. A borrowed article must be returned. The surety must pay the guarantee money. I am leaving a thing with you, if you hold it fast, you will never be misled. That is Book of Allah. Just as he was performing the last duty as an apostle, he got a revelation, from Allah. Al Yauma akmaltu lakum dinakum wa atmamtu alaikom nimati wa radhitu lakumul Islama dina. This day I have perfected for you your Religion and completed my favour to you and chosen for you Islam as a Religion(5:3). At the end of the sermon, Bilal called for prayer. All the Muslims led by the Prophet, offered the Zhuhur and Asar prayers together. On the Morning of the 14th Zulhijjah, he performed tawaf wada and then all departed for their respective destinations. The Prophet in the midst of Muhajirin and Ansar, left for Madinah. My Dear Mentors, Elders and clan Members, Our Life is a Journey. We are always on the road. Each time another day greets us, we have opportunity to pause, to see where we have been to notice, how far we have come, and to ponder how that journey has been for us. Prophet Muhammad S.A.W left us for more than centuries, but he always reminds us that life and property of every one regardless of race, religion or tribe is a sacred. The centurys tribal rido or vengeance during Prophets time had ended due to the brightness and teachings of Islam. Each day is also a time to clear our vision, to take stocks of our resources and to refresh our dreams as we set once more on the journey that is ours. The dream begins with our selves, deeply rooted in our personal belief, the ground of our being nourished by our own charisma that we share with our contemporaries. We journey with people with different cultures and creeds, reaching out to the childrens, youth, women and families especially those marginalized. We walk together as one clan, one community towards becoming a new people who do righteous act and forbid evil deeds in a society with complex social problems who live here and now.

Shidik Abantas

pride of the Muslim Maranaos

proclaimed as 9th best speaker of the tournament. Zed is indeed a skillful debater who brought pride and honor not only to his school but also to his Maranao clan and fellow Muslims. Zed is graduating come March 2008. He will be the only Muslim to graduate in the field of English and Literature Studies. Despite the fact Zed is living and dealing with non-Muslim colleagues, he never forgets his religion. He practices Islam strictly by abstaining from what is prohibited and doing what is required. He is also known to be a Maranao who stands for his rights. I have always told myself that Im a Muslim and not just a Muslim because Im also a Maranao who are known to be proud people. I was never ashamed in telling my colleagues in UP-Diliman, Ateneo de Manila and University of Santo Thomas about my identity.

Shidik Abantas, more popularly known as Zed, is presently studying in a well-known Catholic school in the Philippines. As a Maranao and a Muslim, he is the first to hold the position as Prime Minister of the Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan Parliamentary Debate Circle (XU-AdCPDC), an elite debate group. He has proven his capacity by making the University proud in both local and national debate competitions. The XU-AdCPDC is a competing organization with about 120 student-applicants but only 6 were qualified, one of whom was Zed. Zed continues to be one of the top debaters of the University. In the 8th National Debate Championship in Baguio City last October 2006, he ranked 26th best speaker out of the 150 debaters all over the Philippines and Malaysia. He also proved his eloquence in the 1st Philippine Inter-collegiate Debate Championship where his team ranked 3rd in Visayas and Mindanao and

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BOARD MEMBERS:
Regina S. Antequisa Norlayne Atar Halil L. Amerol Luis Siddick F. Adiong Masbud Gaima II Altifany Faridah Laguindab

Staff and Volunteers

Abdul Hamidullah T. Atar Executive Officer Omaima Marabur Administrative Officer Sahirah Tominaman Finance Officer Volunteers Fahad Salic Olomodin Batugan Hamdi Muhammad Rohairah Sumndad Marabur

Address
Reconciliatory Initiatives for Development Opportunities(RIDO) SEC. REG. NO: CN200630844 D1 Hidaya Apartment Ceanuri Subdivision, Camague Iligan City, 9200 Philippines E-mail: pogie_atar@hotmail.com / rido2007@gmail.com Telefax: 063-2254219 or 09186236493 thru Abdul Hamidullah Pogie T. Atar Executive Officer

www.ridoph.org
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