ISABELA CITY, BASILAN — The Provincial Government of Basilan has officially launched PAVE 2.0 Kaelluman, a strengthened, livelihood-focused version of its homegrown Program Against Violent Extremism (PAVE)—a pioneering peace and development model first crafted under the leadership of Gov. Mujiv Hataman during his tenure as ARMM governor.
Held at the Raayat Hall of the Basilan People’s Capitol, the event brought together a wide coalition of government officials, uniformed services, religious leaders, civil society, and key development partners with one clear mandate: to align efforts toward sustainable peace by addressing the economic roots of extremist recruitment.
A United Front for Peace and Development
Gov. Hataman led the launch alongside Acting Provincial Administrator Manny Muarip; BGen. Frederick M. Sales of the 1101st Infantry “Gagandilan” Brigade; LTC Geoffrey Fabros of the 6th Special Forces Battalion; LTC Anthony C. Caro of the 18th Infantry Battalion; LTC Franco Baylon of the 45th Infantry Battalion; LTC Gerwen Maghuyop of the 32nd IB; Col. Cerrazid A. Umabong of the Basilan Police Provincial Office; Dr. Aboulkhair Tarazon of the Basilan Ulama Supreme Council; PLtCol Nurhaib Bungkac; members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan; and around 400 former violent extremists and community volunteers.
Also in attendance were officials and members of the Nagdilaab Foundation—longtime partners instrumental to the success of the original PAVE.
“Kaelluman”: Livelihood at the Core
In Yakan, “Kaelluman” means livelihood—the very heart of the program’s reintegration strategy. Rather than one-time aid, PAVE 2.0 gears toward dignified, inclusive, and sustainable livelihood support, ensuring that households and barangays feel the direct dividends of peace.
Under the enhanced initiative, former combatants and at-risk individuals will receive:
- Skills training and capacity development
- Sustainable livelihood packages
- Institutional support from government, security forces, and civil society
- Continuous mentorship and monitoring at the community level
These interventions aim to prevent the resurgence of extremist narratives, offering economic stability as a more powerful alternative to returning to violence.
Commitment Ceremonies and Testimonies of Hope
The launch featured a collective oath of commitment from agencies and institutions supporting the program—from the provincial government and AFP/PNP units to MENRE and community groups.
Former extremists also shared moving testimonies of how employment, services, and acceptance helped them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.
Following the program, the provincial government distributed cash assistance to help beneficiaries start their chosen legal livelihoods.
Peace Through Good Governance and Economic Stability
Religious and security leaders reiterated that genuine peace stands on three pillars: good governance, safe communities, and stable family incomes. These will guide the synchronized rollout of PAVE 2.0—from youth engagement and conflict prevention to barangay-level monitoring and livelihood support.
A Vision of Reduced Violence and Stronger Families
With PAVE 2.0 Kaelluman, Basilan aims to see not only a decline in violent incidents but also a significant rise in families thriving through consistent, legitimate livelihoods—ultimately transforming the province into a model of community-driven peace and development.
Basilan’s message is clear: economic empowerment is peacebuilding—and peace, when shared and sustained, becomes a legacy for generations.