SUMISIP, Basilan — A decades-long cycle of hostility and mistrust between influential clans in Basilan took a significant step toward resolution after local leaders, security forces, and community elders gathered for the formal signing of a peace agreement under the government’s PAGSULUT Program on May 7, 2026.
The peace gathering, held at the Municipal Hall and Municipal Amphitheater in Barangay Buli-Buli, Sumisip, marked the reconciliation between the group of Tawakkal Bayali, identified as a former violent extremist (FVE), and the composite families of the Balaman, Muril, Ayyub, Rolme, and Hasim clans.
The initiative was spearheaded by Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman and Sumisip Mayor Jul Adnan Hataman in partnership with the military through the 1101st Infantry Brigade.
Leading the military contingent was Brigadier General Frederick M. Sales, who witnessed the historic signing and reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ support for peacebuilding efforts in conflict-affected communities.
PAGSULUT, which stands for “Peaceful and Good Governance as Mechanism in Settling Pagbanta by Unifying Leaders and Uplifting Mutual Trust,” is a localized peace initiative aimed at settling clan feuds and preventing violence through dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation between communities and government institutions.
During the ceremony, representatives from both sides signed the “Parjanjian Pag-Sulut” or Peace Agreement, formally pledging to end their conflict and uphold the laws of the Philippines as well as the teachings of Islam.
The event culminated in a ceremonial handshake between the once-feuding clans — a symbolic gesture that drew applause from community members, religious leaders, and local officials who witnessed what many described as a rare and hopeful moment for Basilan.
Governor Hataman emphasized that sincere leadership and open dialogue remain essential in achieving sustainable peace in the province.
He stressed that long-standing conflicts rooted in revenge, mistrust, and political tensions can only be resolved if communities choose unity over violence and work together toward development.
Brigadier General Sales, meanwhile, underscored the importance of collective action among local government units, security forces, and traditional leaders in preventing extremism and restoring stability in vulnerable areas.
Officials said the PAGSULUT Program continues to strengthen mutual trust and cooperation among Basilan communities by promoting peaceful conflict resolution and encouraging former rivals to become partners in development.
Present during the peace covenant were Vice Mayor Gulam “Boy” Hataman, members of the Provincial Board and Municipal Council, Lt. Col. Gerwin Maghuyop, Sumisip police chief PCPT Jakira Muin, religious leaders, clan elders, and residents from various barangays in the municipality.
The Provincial Government of Basilan said it will continue expanding grassroots peace initiatives in an effort to strengthen community relations and dismantle the culture of violence that has long affected parts of the province.
For many residents in attendance, the signing of the peace pact represented more than just an agreement — it symbolized renewed hope that future generations in Basilan may finally grow up in communities defined not by fear and conflict, but by trust, unity, and peace.