BASILAN — June 9, 2025. In a historic and emotionally resonant moment, the Province of Basilan formally declared itself free from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), marking a transformative milestone not only for the province but for the entire nation. The declaration, led by the Provincial Government of Basilan through the Office of the Provincial Governor, symbolizes not merely the absence of armed conflict, but the triumph of hope, unity, and resilience over decades of violence and fear.
The ceremonial program held in Isabela City featured the demilitarization of 329 assorted firearms surrendered by former combatants, the unveiling of the Pillar of Peace, and a symbolic dove release. These powerful images reflect Basilan’s journey from the shadows of extremism to a future shaped by peace and development.
For years, Basilan bore the brunt of ASG’s reign of terror—marked by kidnappings, bombings, and other violent acts that stifled economic growth and inflicted deep wounds on communities. But today, the people of Basilan, together with local leaders, civil society groups, and security forces, have reclaimed their homeland.
The ceremony was graced by Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., who delivered the keynote message. He emphasized the broader national importance of Basilan’s achievement.
“Ang tagumpay na ito ay hindi lamang tagumpay ng Basilan. Sa mata ng buong bansa, kayo po ay isang halimbawa ng tagumpay ng whole-of-government approach, kung saan ang lokal at pambansang pamahalaan ay nagkakaisa para sa isang makabuluhang layunin: ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran para sa lahat,” Lagdameo said. “As we raise the flag of peace over Basilan, may it be a beacon for other regions still battling the shadows of violence.”
Also in attendance were Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman, and other key stakeholders who played vital roles in the province’s peacebuilding efforts.
The Pillar of Peace, now standing tall in Basilan, serves as a lasting reminder of the province’s strength and transformation. At its heart is a white dove with wings spread, carrying an olive branch as it lands into two open hands sculpted from demilitarized firearms. The olive branch carries thirteen leaves—symbolizing the eleven municipalities and two cities of Basilan—each of which contributed to this hard-won peace.
This symbolic marker, inspired by the historic visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on March 2, 2024, stands as a commitment to peace, a tribute to those who worked tirelessly to make it possible, and a call to continue nurturing unity and development.
Basilan has turned the page. Once marred by conflict, it now emerges as a province of peace, hope, and renewed promise for future generations. The declaration of being ASG-Free is not just the end of an era—it is the beginning of a new chapter.
This is the new Basilan: free, peaceful, and standing strong.