Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan | April 10, 2025 — In a proactive effort to ensure peaceful and orderly elections this May, the 45th Infantry (Gallant) Battalion, under the 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division of the Philippine Army, in partnership with the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS)-Basilan, launched a two-day peace advocacy initiative aimed at fostering unity and preventing violence across three key municipalities in the province.
For the first time, Barangay Chairpersons from Ungkaya Pukan, Tipo-Tipo, and Al-Barka — collectively referred to as UPTAL — gathered for the event, which focused on the theme, “Promoting a Safe, Secure, and Successful Election and Community-Based Advocacy on Preventing Rido.”
A total of 39 barangays were represented during the dialogue-driven initiative, which sought to go beyond typical election security briefings by promoting genuine cooperation, conflict resolution, and grassroots unity. Day one centered on the unique challenges facing Al-Barka, while barangay leaders from Tipo-Tipo and Ungkaya Pukan convened on the second day.
The event culminated with a pledge-signing ceremony, where the local leaders committed to upholding a secure election environment, free from violence and intimidation, ensuring that every voter can exercise their democratic rights safely.
Mr. Shahid P. Akbara, MPA, Community Affairs Officer III and head of MPOS-Basilan, lauded the initiative, calling it a “turning point” in strengthening grassroots peacebuilding efforts.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the 45IB for their unwavering partnership. This kind of initiative should be given utmost importance, especially in preparation for the upcoming National and Local Elections (NLE) in May 2025. It also created an avenue for us to present the advocacy of our office and raise concerns from the grassroots level to higher offices,” Akbara said.
Lt. Col. Franco F. Baylon, Commanding Officer of the 45th Infantry Battalion, underscored the significance of continued dialogue and collaboration.
“This is a vision for lasting peace in Basilan. The Philippine Army stands unwavering in its commitment to support these peacebuilding efforts. Through open dialogue, we can face challenges together and pave the way for a brighter future,” Baylon said.
The 45th Infantry Battalion also extended its gratitude to MPOS-Basilan, the barangay leaders, and Gallant Youth volunteers whose dedication and commitment to peace, unity, and progress were hailed as an inspiration for the province.
The advocacy initiative stands as a beacon of hope for Basilan — a testament to the collective will of its leaders and citizens to shape a future built on peace, cooperation, and shared progress.