Marawi City, June 20, 2025 – The Committee on Peace and Order and Public Safety, the Committee on Public Safety and Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Lanao del Sur conducted a public consultation at the Social Hall, New Capitol Complex, Marawi City yesterday to discuss the proposed ordinance aimed at institutionalizing the use of Customary Dispute Resolution in Lanao del Sur.

Representatives from the academe, judiciary, religious and traditional leaders, as well as various government agencies attended the consultation. The ordinance seeks to formalize the customary system for resolving disputes rooted in the culture of the people of Lanao del Sur. The proposal also includes the establishment of a Provincial Peace and Development Office and the allocation of funds for its implementation.

The public consultation was presided over by Atty. Aminoden L. Macalandap, Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan – Lanao del Sur, and was joined by key speakers: Provincial Attorney Atty. Faisal P. Cali; RAHEEMA Executive Director Bae a Labi Sittie Aisah “Baicon” Cayongcat-Nuska; Assistant Regional Prosecutor Atty. Omar Macapaar; and Hon. Judge Wenida M. Papandayan of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 10, Lanao del Sur.

Traditional leaders expressed their unwavering support, stating that the ordinance would significantly contribute to promoting peace and culturally appropriate justice in the province.

Meanwhile, Judge Wenida Papandayan remarked that this initiative would benefit the judicial system by providing an alternative mechanism for resolving cases, which is expected to help reduce the number of cases in court.

The proposed ordinance underwent a series of public consultations throughout 2024 to ensure that it is inclusive, humane, and effectively reflects the desires of the people of Lanao del Sur for a more peaceful community.