LUMBACA UNAYAN, LANAO DEL SUR — In a historic show of unity and defiance against violent extremism, the Municipality of Lumbaca Unayan on November 20, 2025 officially declared itself free from the influence of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) and the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army–National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
The declaration, sanctioned through Sangguniang Bayan Resolution Nos. 16 and 17, was made during a united peace rally at the Lumbaca Unayan Municipal Hall in Barangay Oriental Beta. The activity was spearheaded by the 64th Infantry “Knights” Battalion under LIEUTENANT COLONEL JERRY B. GAVIOLA INF (GSC) PA and supervised by BRIGADIER GENERAL YASSER R. BARA PA, Commander of the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade, in close coordination with the Local Government Unit (LGU) and the Municipal Police Station.
The event signified a collective community stance rejecting terrorism, decades-long insurgency, and the intimidation brought by local armed groups. It also marked the formal creation of the Municipal Task Force – Ending Local Armed Conflict (MT-ELAC), a key mechanism designed to sustain peace and prevent the reemergence of extremist forces in the municipality.
A peace motorcade, solidarity walk rally, and the symbolic burning of the ISIS flag highlighted the gathering — powerful gestures illustrating the people’s firm resolve to resist radicalization and reclaim their communities from the grips of fear.
The DI-Maute Group has long been responsible for deadly attacks, civilian casualties, and widespread disruption in Lanao del Sur. The public declaration further underscores the community’s determination to close this chapter and safeguard future generations from extremist violence.
Strong support poured in from various sectors, including LGU-Lumbaca Unayan headed by Municipal Mayor Hon. Jamalia D. Aloyodan, the Lumbaca Unayan Municipal Police Station under PCPT Percival P. Alfonso, local ulama, traditional leaders, and youth representatives — all united in a resounding call for peace and stability.
“Today marks a turning point for our municipality,” LTC Gaviola said in his message. “By standing together, we send a powerful message that we will never allow fear, violence, or extremism to rule our community again. Your courage is the true foundation of lasting peace.”
The declaration follows recent successful security operations in nearby Pagayawan, where forces neutralized Abu Jihad, PSR-listed No. 2 and a major DI-MG figure. His death dealt a significant blow to extremist operations in the province and reinforced the momentum behind community-led peace initiatives.
With the creation of MT-ELAC, the AFP, PNP, and LGU vowed to intensify peacebuilding programs, deepen inter-agency coordination, and strengthen efforts against radicalization to ensure the municipality remains secure and resilient.
The united stand of Lumbaca Unayan represents a decisive stride toward a more peaceful Lanao del Sur — one built on cooperation, vigilance, and shared hope. Military units reaffirmed their commitment to helping sustain peace, supporting local development, and ensuring that communities can live and thrive without fear of insurgency or violent extremism.