CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte – May 5, 2025 — In a strong show of unity against terrorism, the Municipality of Barira, Maguindanao del Norte, has declared the Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group and its Black Flag as persona non grata, drawing commendation from the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and the Joint Task Force Central (JTFC).
The declaration, formalized under Resolution No. 11, Series of 2025, was unanimously passed during the regular session of the Sangguniang Bayan of Barira on March 26, 2025, and subsequently approved by Municipal Mayor Abdul Rauf D. Tomawis. The measure was principally authored by Councilors Abdulgani R. Dimasangkay and Bocari P. Tomawis.
The resolution condemns the Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group as an extremist faction with a track record of violence, terrorism, and sowing fear, threatening the values of peace, unity, and human dignity in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). It explicitly denounces the group’s black flag as a symbol of violent extremism and division, and prohibits its display or use within the municipality.
Beyond symbolic rejection, the resolution outlines concrete actions, including:
- Coordinating with law enforcement, military units, and relevant authorities to apprehend group affiliates and operatives.
- Strengthening community engagement and peacebuilding to prevent radicalization, particularly among youth.
- Encouraging all government agencies, local institutions, and community leaders to monitor and report suspicious activities.
- Launching educational and social initiatives that promote unity and reject extremist ideologies.
Vice Mayor Bahrain M. Dagalangit presided over the session, which saw the attendance of majority of the council members and the support of ex-officio representatives. The resolution was unanimously approved, signaling a united local front against extremist threats.
Brigadier General Romulo Quemado II, Commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, praised the move, calling it a “bold and necessary action” to protect communities.
“The decisive action of the local government of Barira sends a strong message that terrorism and violent extremism have no place in our communities,” said BGen. Quemado. “It reinforces our collective resolve to uphold peace and reject those who threaten our way of life.”
Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6ID and JTFC, echoed this sentiment.
“We commend the Municipality of Barira for its courageous and principled stand,” he said. “The 6ID and JTFC fully support this initiative and remain committed to working hand in hand with local governments to secure and sustain peace in the region.”
The Joint Task Force Central reiterated its dedication to collaborative peacekeeping efforts across its area of responsibility, emphasizing that local government initiatives such as Barira’s are crucial in the broader fight against terrorism and radicalization.