Kalinga tribes revive traditional peace pact to end decades of hostilities

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 11, 2026

Photo Courtesy: PNA

Two indigenous tribes in Lubuagan, Kalinga, have agreed to end decades of hostilities by restoring the traditional bodong system, renewing their commitment to peace and cooperation through customary conflict resolution.

Elders of the Lubuagan and Mabongtot tribes signed the peace agreement on October 5 at the Kalinga Sports Complex in Tabuk City. Representatives of both groups exchanged sipat, traditional symbols of peace that signify their commitment to rebuilding harmonious relations.

The agreement was reached through mediation led by Kalinga Bodong Council of Elders chair Johnny Maymaya and Lubuagan Vice Mayor Oliver Dickly, according to municipal information officer Darryl Abayon.

Under the restored bodong, both tribes pledged to end revenge and retaliation, avoid harassment and aggression, and resolve future disputes through dialogue and traditional mechanisms.

The peace pact revives a customary agreement that had deteriorated and was eventually withdrawn following incidents involving members of the two communities over the years.

The bodong system relies on respected elders and traditional leaders to establish agreements that bind participating groups to maintain peace and refrain from harming one another. Its restoration highlights the continuing role of indigenous leadership in resolving disputes and strengthening community relations in the Cordillera.

Meanwhile, authorities continue security operations in another tribal conflict involving the Butbut tribe of Sadanga, Mountain Province, and the Tulgao tribe of Tinglayan, Kalinga.

Kalinga Provincial Police Director Col. Gilbert Fati-ig said more than 130 police personnel had been deployed for preventive patrols in affected areas. Police are also investigating a recent incident and gathering statements for possible legal action.

An advance command post has been established at the Buscalan checkpoint to strengthen monitoring and coordination.

As a precaution, the Department of Tourism in the Cordillera said it respects the local government’s decision to suspend tourism activities and visits to Buscalan, a destination known for the traditional tattooing practiced by Apo Whang-od.

The separate security concerns underscore the continuing importance of dialogue, traditional leadership and coordinated peacekeeping efforts in communities across the Cordillera.