Basilan Province Declares Freedom From Abu Sayyaf Group
On Monday, June 9, the provincial government of Basilan officially declared the province free from the presence and threat of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). This declaration marks a major milestone in Basilan province’s long journey toward peace and security.
The ceremony took place at the Basilan Government Center in Santa Clara, Lamitan City, gathering national and local leaders, peace advocates, and security officials. The key phrase “freedom from Abu Sayyaf Group” represents not just a political statement but the collective resilience and hope of the Basilan people for lasting peace and progress.
Unity and Courage Lead to Historic Breakthrough
Local authorities described the declaration as a testament to the unity and courage of the community. Years of intensified counterterrorism operations and strong cooperation among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, local government units, and civil society groups made this achievement possible.
“May every leader who comes after us continue to guard this peace, and may our children never have to live the story we are finally closing,” said Basilan Governor Jim Hataman Salliman during his speech. His heartfelt appeal reflected the collective sentiment of the province’s residents.
National Leaders Highlight Collaborative Peace Efforts
Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., delivered the keynote address. He emphasized that the freedom from Abu Sayyaf Group in Basilan is the result of persistent efforts between local and national agencies dedicated to peace and stability.
“As envisioned by President Marcos, collaborative peace is the foundation of progress not only for the Bangsamoro region but for the entire nation,” Lagdameo stated. He added, “As we raise the flag of peace over Basilan, may it inspire other regions still facing violence.”
He expressed gratitude to security forces, law enforcement, local leaders, religious institutions, and the people of Basilan for their role in achieving this historic breakthrough. “May this inspire our continued march toward a just, inclusive, and lasting peace for the entire nation,” he concluded.
Symbolic Demilitarization and Peace Marker Unveiling
The event began at 10 a.m. with a symbolic demilitarization. Surrendered high-powered firearms—including 329 rifles, 800mm mortars, and .50 caliber sniper rifles—were publicly destroyed using a steamroller. This powerful gesture symbolized the community’s collective rejection of violence.
Following the demilitarization, a peace marker was unveiled in the presence of representatives from various sectors involved in the peace process. The ceremony ended with messages of solidarity from prominent leaders and stakeholders.
Among the dignitaries present were Basilan Ulama Supreme Council President Aboulkhair Tarason, Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay, Lt. Gen. Leonardo Peña of Joint Task Force Orion, Basilan police director Police Col. Cerrazid Umabong, Basilan Vice Governor Yusop Alano, and Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity.
This declaration of freedom from Abu Sayyaf Group signals a hopeful new chapter for Basilan, one built on peace, cooperation, and shared responsibility.
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