ISABELA CITY, Basilan — In a strong show of unity and environmental stewardship, personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), along with former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members and provincial government employees, joined hands in another round of coastal cleanup on Saturday led by Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman.
The activity took place along the coastal barangays of Isabela City as part of the province’s ongoing campaign for a cleaner and safer environment. Among those who led the initiative were 101st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales and Basilan Police Provincial Director PCol. Cerrazid Umabong.
Working side by side, soldiers, police officers, coast guard personnel, ASG returnees, and provincial employees collected tons of garbage, including plastics, broken materials, and other waste that had accumulated along the shoreline.
Governor Hataman emphasized that such initiatives go beyond mere cleanliness—they represent a deeper commitment to responsible living and environmental protection.
“Caring for the environment is a collective duty,” Hataman said. “By integrating these cleanup activities into our regular programs, we hope to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of Basilan’s coastal ecosystems for future generations.”
This marks the second coastal cleanup drive in the province this month, following the success of the initial event led by Capitol employees. The provincial government plans to make these cleanups a regular activity to ensure the continued protection and sustainability of Basilan’s marine and coastal areas.
For Hataman, the participation of both civilians and members of the security sector—including former combatants—underscores a broader definition of peace and progress in Basilan.
“True peace is not only measured by security,” he said, “but also by our shared efforts to protect the environment and build a sustainable future for all.”
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