Edward Mico Joseph Agustin

Basilan was officially declared as free from the influence and presence of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Monday, June 9, marking a major milestone for the island-province that was once considered the stronghold of the infamous terror organization.

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Basilan now free from Abu Sayyaf

ABS-CBN News

LAMITAN CITY, BASILAN --- Basilan was officially declared as free from the influence and presence of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Monday, June 9, marking a major milestone for the island-province that was once considered the stronghold of the terrorist organization. Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. and Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. led the event to declare the development.They also witnessed the turnover of 329 assorted loose firearms that were turned over to the Basilan local government units and the military.In his message of support, Lagdameo underscored the significance of the said event and said the declaration is not made lightly.He also lauded Basilan as an example of the “whole-of-government approach,” wherein national and local stakeholders worked hand in hand to bring sustainable development and long-lasting peace.&quot;To our local leaders and the people of Basilan, this declaration is your victory. You chose peace. You opened doors for reintegration, for healing, and for rebuilding lives. [You have shown] that terrorism cannot thrive when communities are strong, vigilant, and empowered,&quot; he said.Basilan Governor Hadjiman Hataman-Salliman, meanwhile, thanked the national government for its help in recovering the Basilan from the ASG.“Maraming buhay ang binuwis, maraming effort, maraming resources. To Sec. Galvez, thank you for the [helping] hand that you extended to the province,” he said.The official declaration of Basilan as “ASG-free” is anchored on the Joint Resolution issued by the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) on February 6, 2025.

Basilan was officially declared as free from the influence and presence of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Monday, June 9, marking a major milestone for the island-province that was once considered the stronghold of the terrorist organization.

Basilan was officially declared as free from the influence and presence of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) on Monday, June 9, marking a major milestone for the island-province that was once considered the stronghold of the terrorist organization.

Basilan now free from Abu Sayyaf, gov't says

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Basilan now free from Abu Sayyaf, gov't says

ABS-CBN News

Published Jun 09, 2025 11:00 PM PHT

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