ISABELA CITY, BASILAN. The 101st Infantry “Three Red Arrows” Brigade of the Philippine Army welcomed Commander Habib Sakib, Chief of the National Action Force of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and his wife during a courtesy visit at the Brigade Headquarters in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela City.
Commander Sakib and his party were warmly received by Brigadier General Frederick M. Sales, Commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, along with Colonel Philip Fagel and other Brigade Staff Officers.
The visit served as a reaffirmation of the longstanding partnership and mutual trust between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the MNLF — a relationship founded on years of cooperation in promoting peace and development in Basilan.
Brig. Gen. Sales and Commander Sakib, who have worked closely in past peace and reconciliation efforts, both emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication and strong coordination to preserve stability in the province.
“The relationship between the AFP and the MNLF is built on trust, respect, and a common vision for peace. By continuing to work together, we ensure that the gains of peace in Basilan remain strong and lasting,” Brig. Gen. Sales said.
The courtesy visit highlighted the continuing spirit of unity between the AFP and MNLF as key stakeholders in peacebuilding and community development across Mindanao.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to sustain collaborative efforts aimed at advancing peace, security, and prosperity for the people of Basilan.