Basilan, BARMM – The Kenram Group has expressed significant interest in establishing an oil palm plantation and crude palm oil milling operation in Basilan, marking a major potential investment in the island province, which is part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This move comes as Basilan continues to experience substantial improvements in peace and order.
Brig. Gen. Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry “Three Red Arrows” Brigade, confirmed that senior executives from Kenram Group Palmoil Industries Inc. (KPII) recently visited Basilan to assess the security situation and meet with local officials. The visit included discussions with the provincial government and security personnel, during which the current peaceful status of the province was highlighted.
The Kenram delegation, led by Engr. Alfredo P. Montecillo, president and CEO of KPII, and James Roy N. Villareal, executive vice president of Villareal Group, visited the headquarters of the 101st Infantry Brigade in Isabela City. The meeting underscored the company’s plans to pursue large-scale palm oil production in Basilan.
The Kenram Group’s renewed interest follows reports that Basilan has seen a marked decline in violence and threats from lawless elements, particularly the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a group that previously operated in the area. Improved security has been a result of sustained military efforts, alongside local government initiatives aimed at fostering economic development.
“This is the perfect time to invest in Basilan, especially as the province is on the verge of officially declaring itself ASG-free,” Brig. Gen. Luzon said, signaling the province’s transformation into a more secure and investment-ready environment.
Economic and Environmental Considerations
The discussions at the military camp in Barangay Tabiawan focused on the feasibility of expanding oil palm production in the province, assessing the logistical, environmental, and socio-economic implications of such a project. The Kenram Group sees potential for Basilan to become a significant player in the palm oil industry, given the province’s fertile lands and strategic location within BARMM.
The company’s interest also aligns with ongoing government efforts to attract investments in the agricultural sector as part of the broader strategy to improve living conditions and reduce poverty in the region. An oil palm plantation and milling facility could generate thousands of jobs and contribute to the economic upliftment of Basilan’s population, providing a steady source of income for farmers and boosting local commerce.
Basilan’s Path to Economic Recovery
Basilan, an island historically affected by conflict, has made considerable strides in recent years towards stability. The successful operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have diminished the presence of militant groups, allowing the local government to focus on economic rebuilding efforts. Infrastructure developments and agriculture have been identified as key drivers for Basilan’s future growth.
The potential entry of Kenram Group into the province could further accelerate this progress. By tapping into the oil palm industry, which has seen strong demand globally, Basilan could position itself as a hub for sustainable agriculture within BARMM, offering new revenue streams and growth opportunities for local communities.
The Kenram Group’s visit and ongoing discussions signal optimism for the future of Basilan. With both the private sector and local government working together, the province is poised for further economic transformation and development.
