Basilan, Philippines — In a landmark move toward peace and stability, Basilan province hosted a two-day summit from November 12–13, 2024, focused on the reintegration of former violent extremists (FVEs). Key officials, including Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman and Brigadier General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry “Three Red Arrows” Brigade, praised the summit as an important step in addressing the root causes of local conflict and creating a peaceful future for the Basileño community.
Governor Salliman and Brigadier General Luzon highlighted that reintegrating FVEs into mainstream society is essential for ending the cycle of violence that has affected the province. By addressing underlying issues and offering opportunities for livelihood and stability, the program aims to prevent a return to extremism among former members of groups such as the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), whose former members made up a significant portion of the summit attendees.
The summit, organized by Basilan’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Committee, took place at the Kasinnahan Hotel and Restaurant and brought together 150 former ASG members, along with representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, and the Task Force Balik-Loob (TFBL) under the Department of National Defense (DND).
Key Activities and Support Programs for FVEs
On November 12, Brigadier General Luzon led a meeting attended by members of the E-CLIP committee, civil society leaders, and TFBL representatives. The session provided an opportunity to assess the E-CLIP’s progress, tackle challenges, and explore further collaboration with local partners to ensure the program’s effectiveness. The agenda emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with FVEs to maintain peace and foster long-term stability within Basilan.
The following day, the summit featured presentations on reintegration support services and livelihood initiatives for FVEs. Governor Salliman, joined by Colonel Frederick M. Sales, deputy commander of the 101st Brigade, shared plans to establish a cooperative for former ASG members, aimed at empowering them through income-generating activities. Representatives from the Land Bank of the Philippines discussed capital assistance programs, while the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) offered support for obtaining national identification, which will be crucial for accessing government services.
Additionally, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) pledged immediate assistance to former ASG members to help with their transition back into society.
Moving Toward Lasting Peace
The summit underscored Basilan’s commitment to a comprehensive peace strategy that integrates former extremists into the fabric of the community. This approach, according to Governor Salliman, reflects the province’s dedication to both security and social development.
“The reintegration of former combatants goes beyond removing them from the battlefield. It’s about offering them a place and purpose in a community that values peace,” Salliman said. With continued local and national support, the governor believes that Basilan is on track toward becoming a model for reintegration and community-led peacebuilding efforts in the region.
The event concludes with optimism, as government and military leaders, former extremists, and the community stand united for a peaceful future in Basilan.
