“Awan ti healthy nga environment nu adda aga-apa” — BM Dangani underscores that safe and healthy community needs peace

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — “Peace is not only about ending hostilities between communities but also about creating an environment where people can live safely and harmoniously,” Board Member Alfredo K. Dangani said, underscoring the importance of lasting peace to public health and community well-being.

Dangani made the statement as he expressed his willingness to help represent the Butbut tribe in peace discussions aimed at resolving its longstanding conflict with the Tulgao tribe in Tinglayan.

As chairperson of the Provincial Board’s Committee on Health, Dangani stressed that communities cannot fully achieve a healthy environment while conflict and division persist.

“Kunak garud, ti chairmanship ko ket Committee on Health, ket kas kunak, awan ti healthy nga environment nu ada aga-apa,” he told Guru Press Cordillera on October 27.

He also urged members of both communities to respect one another and recognize their equal worth as they work toward reconciliation.

“Respetuen tayo amin nga tao. Agpapada koma amin nga tao,” he added.

Dangani’s statement comes as the Kalinga Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), upon the directive of Governor James S. Edduba, seeks to involve him in peace discussions as a representative of the Butbut community because of his ancestral ties to the tribe.

The initiative aims to broaden representation in the peace process and help build understanding between the two communities.

Dangani said he was awaiting formal coordination before taking part, emphasizing the need to respect established procedures and the limits of his authority as a provincial legislator.

“Ururayek lang ti tawag or coordination kasi haan tayo met mabalin aggaraw nu awan ti pahintulot, especially we are in the legislative now and haan tayon nga police,” he said.

He reiterated his willingness to participate in the peace initiative and do what he can to help the two tribes work toward a peaceful resolution of their dispute.