Basilan declared free from Abu Sayyaf; Gov Salliman thanks national government

On Monday, June 9, the Provincial Government of Basilan formally declared the province free from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), marking a significant milestone in peace and security for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. led the declaration ceremony at Basilan Government Center, underscoring the importance of this achievement through persistent collaborative efforts by local and national agencies.

Basilan Governor Jim Hataman Salliman thanked the national government for its support in recovering from ASG influence and urged future leaders to maintain stability.

Business groups expressed satisfaction over the complete clearance of ASG from Basilan, with Bangsamoro Regional Board of Investments chairman Mohammad Omar Pasigan stating that this achievement will accelerate efforts to attract investors.

The Bangsamoro Business Council is now considering formulating comprehensive investment plans for Basilan to attract capitalists from outside the region, leveraging the province's newfound stability and potential as an investment destination.