No crossing-firing zones enforced in Butbut-Tulgao conflict areas in Tinglayan as peace efforts continue

“Absolutely, no carrying of weapon inside that zone or outside that zone. Whether towards Butbut or Tulgao, we will not allow that.” - Lt. Col. Jimrhic B. Obias

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — A 500-meter no-crossing zone has been imposed around disputed areas between the Butbut and Tulgao tribes in Tinglayan, with security forces enforcing a strict ban on firearms and warning that violators may be apprehended.

Lt. Col. Jimrhic B. Obias, commander of the 103rd Infantry Battalion, presented the Zone of Peace guidelines during the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting on October 26 at the Provincial Capitol.

The restricted zone may be expanded to one kilometer. Members of both tribes are prohibited from entering the area without authorization or prior coordination with security forces.

Obias stressed that no carrying of weapons and no indiscriminate firing will be allowed inside or outside the designated zone, regardless of tribal affiliation.

“Absolutely, no carrying of weapon inside that zone or outside that zone. Whether towards Butbut or Tulgao, we will not allow that,” Obias said.

He warned that armed civilians encountered by security forces could be mistaken for members of the opposing tribe and may be apprehended. Soldiers and police will also respond to reports of gunfire and identify those responsible.

Only joint Philippine Army and Philippine National Police forces are authorized to operate within the declared Zone of Peace. Tribal members with legitimate reasons to enter must coordinate with security personnel beforehand.

During the same meeting, Obias reported that the Butbut community had committed to refrain from further hostile actions against the Tulgao tribe, while a barangay captain from Tulgao West expressed openness to a sipat, or peace pact.

The no-firing and no-crossing measures are part of continuing efforts to prevent further violence and protect civilians amid the longstanding ancestral boundary dispute.

The commitments from both communities offer hope for renewed dialogue and a peaceful resolution, with authorities urging the Butbut and Tulgao tribes to exercise restraint and work together to restore lasting peace in Tinglayan.