Basilan Celebrates Peace and Development, Welcomes Former Rebels
April 17, 2024 - Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos pledged continued support for the province of Basilan in its pursuit of peace and development. Abalos was in Sumisip, Basilan, over the weekend to join the residents in celebrating the gains of peace on their 50th anniversary and the Kalasig-Lasigan Festival.
 |
| Photo Courtesy of the Department of Interior and Local Government |
During the event, around 300 former Abu Sayyaf members who had returned to the fold of the law were presented to him by Governor Hadjiman Hataman Salliman and Sumisip Mayor Jul-Adnan Hataman. “You have implemented the government’s programs, and next is the full development of Basilan, especially Sumisip. That’s important, and I will help you,” Abalos said.
Abalos praised the beauty of Basilan and Sumisip, but noted that there is much work to be done, such as infrastructure, airports, and seaports. He acknowledged that these projects are already being undertaken by Governor Salliman and Mayor Hataman.
Abalos urged the people of Basilan to maintain peace and work together for the development and progress of their province. “Peace is not just for one day, peace is a continuing process. It is about courage to face adversity and resilience to face challenges,” he said.
He commended Mayor Hataman for leading Sumisip Municipality to greater heights of development, as evidenced by the five Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) awards it received in the past years. Abalos also hailed Governor Salliman for bringing peace and development to the province, having been a consistent recipient of several accolades from the national government, such as the Galing Pook Award, SGLG, and Gawad Kalasag.
Meanwhile, Governor Salliman reflected on their journey, acknowledging the challenges they’ve overcome, the successes they’ve achieved, and the unity that has strengthened them along the way.