Isabela City, Basilan – Basilan Representative and House Deputy Minority Leader Mujiv Hataman officially filed his candidacy for the governorship of Basilan on Monday at the Provincial Election Office (PEO) in Isabela City. Hataman, a seasoned politician, will be running against his nephew, incumbent Provincial Board Member and lawyer Jimael Jay Datumanong-Salliman, in a highly anticipated gubernatorial race. Jimael is the son of Hataman’s elder brother, outgoing Governor Jim Hataman-Salliman, setting the stage for a rare political face-off within the same family.
Hataman’s bid for the governorship is part of his broader vision to continue his legacy of public service in Basilan. He is running under the banner of the Liberal Party (LP) and the local Basilan Unity Party (BUP), which promotes unity and progress for the province.
Key Political Allies
Joining Hataman in his gubernatorial campaign is his running mate, Alzad Sattar, a respected scholar and religious leader in Basilan, who is seeking the vice gubernatorial post. Hataman also endorses Maluso Mayor Hanie Bud as the candidate to succeed him in Congress, expressing confidence in Bud’s leadership abilities and vision for Basilan’s future.
Political Tensions Within the Family
The political rivalry between Hataman and his nephew, Jimael Jay Datumanong-Salliman, has drawn significant attention due to the family’s prominent role in Basilan politics. Despite the familial ties, both candidates are expected to mount competitive campaigns, each with distinct platforms focusing on the province’s development and the welfare of its people.
Commitment to Basilan’s Future
Hataman’s candidacy is centered on continuing his advocacy for unity and progress in Basilan. He vows to champion initiatives that will uplift the lives of Basileños, bringing hope and opportunity through the combined efforts of the Liberal Party and Basilan Unity Party. His campaign emphasizes the importance of collaboration in building a brighter future for the province.
As Basilan prepares for the 2025 elections, all eyes are on this critical contest, which will shape the province’s leadership and its path forward.
