ISABELA CITY, Basilan — In a remarkable gathering that echoed hope and healing, more than 250 former violent extremists (FVEs) joined Governor Mujiv Hataman at the Raayat Hall of the Basilan People’s Capitol for “Usap Tayo, Gob!” — a continuing initiative for peacebuilding and reintegration in the province.
The event opened with a reflective reading from the Qur’an led by Dr. Alzad Sattar of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council, reminding everyone that true transformation begins within oneself. His words set the tone for a day centered on forgiveness, understanding, and community rebuilding.
Delivering an inspiring message, Brigadier General Frederick Sales, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, encouraged the returnees to continue their path toward peace. “Ang kapayapaan ay hindi natatapos sa pagsuko. Ito ay pagpapatuloy ng isang bagong buhay,” he said, urging them to help build a progressive Basilan free from the shadows of conflict.
Dr. Abdulkhair Tarazon, Chairman of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council, also underscored the dangers of violence and extremism, emphasizing that Islam promotes harmony, compassion, and unity. “Walang lugar ang karahasan sa pananampalataya,” he stressed, calling for mutual respect and cooperation among Basileños.
Governor Mujiv Hataman, who personally led the dialogue, expressed gratitude to all the participants — particularly the former combatants who chose peace over violence. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting their reintegration, not only through livelihood aid but also by maintaining open communication with communities.
“Ang kapayapaan ay hindi proyekto — ito ay pang-araw-araw na desisyon. At dito sa Basilan, pinili natin itong isabuhay,” said Hataman.
Also in attendance were Isabela City Mayor Dadah Turabin-Hataman, Dr. Abunapis Omar, Hon. Hanie Bud, Dr. Jul Asri Samir, former Vice Governor Alrasheed Sakkalahul, Queenie Padilla, and representatives from the AFP and PNP, showing multi-sectoral support for the province’s peace journey.
As a gesture of goodwill, each returnee received 25 kilos of rice and ₱1,000 — small tokens symbolizing a fresh start and a tangible expression of government support.
The event reaffirmed that peace in Basilan is no longer a distant dream but a shared commitment — a collective effort of government, faith leaders, security forces, and the people themselves.
Through Usap Tayo, Gob!, Basilan continues to prove that dialogue, empathy, and trust can transform former adversaries into partners in building a safer, stronger, and more hopeful province.