Gov. Edduba: New EO to be issued to fast-track peace efforts, contains more specific framework for addressing concerns of Butbut-Tulgao tribes

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Governor James S. Edduba is set to issue a separate Executive Order (EO) specifically addressing the conflict between the Butbut and Tulgao tribes, as provincial officials work to establish a coordinated government response and clarify the leadership of the peace task force.

The proposed issuance was discussed during the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting on October 26, where officials reviewed existing executive issuances and the need to align government efforts to prevent renewed violence and support peace negotiations.

Edduba said the new EO would specifically cover the Butbut-Tulgao conflict, separate from the existing order establishing Task Force Chumanchil.

During the meeting, the governor proposed that Kalinga Rep. Caroline Agyao serve as task force chairperson, with Vice Governor Dave Odiem as co-chairperson, following requests from the two tribes.

However, Agyao’s representative, Regie Wacas, said officials should first verify the status of the existing EO and determine whether the task force had been formally constituted before proceeding with planned activities.

Provincial Legal Officer John Paul Baguiwan explained that the existing EO was designed to address not only the Butbut-Tulgao conflict but also other potential conflicts across Kalinga.

Baguiwan recommended that the council review the order before the governor signs it and consider including additional members who could contribute to the task force’s work.

He also clarified that Task Force Chumangchil operates under a separate EO and deals with pressing concerns and related issues in the area.

Edduba reiterated that the proposed new issuance would provide a more specific framework for addressing the Butbut-Tulgao conflict, while the existing Chumangchil order would remain in place.

Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Flordeliza Moldero said a separate meeting should be convened once the new EO is issued to develop a coordinated action plan and define the responsibilities of participating offices.

She said the different government agencies should work as one team, with each office carrying out its designated role when engaging with affected communities.

During the same PPOC meeting, 103rd Infantry Battalion commander Lt. Col. Jimrick Obias reported that the Butbut and Tulgao tribes had agreed to a ceasefire following separate dialogues with their elders.

As of the October 26 meeting, the proposed EO and task force leadership arrangements remained under discussion. Officials had yet to confirm that the new order had been signed or formally issued.