ILIGAN CITY – The military has declared the province of Basilan free from the Abu Sayyaf Group following the surrender of the four remaining members and four followers in Barangay Guiong, Sumisip on Thursday.
FOUR remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf Group surrender in Basilan on Thursday. (101st IB)
The surrenderers – Tawakkal Bayali, Abu Bayali, Julhari Bayali, Hasib Tualaran, Yusup Bayali, Marjan Bayali, Makrin Bayali, and Apong Upaman – turned over five high-powered firearms, including an M203 grenade launcher, three M16 rifles, a caliber .30 Carbine rifle, and assorted ammunition.
“We are very thankful and welcome the surrender of the Tawakkal Bayali group. I laud their decision to lay down arms and finally join mainstream society," Brig. Gen. Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade, said.
"Your surrender today is not only for you, your families, and your future but also the province of Basilan, paving the way for peace and development. Let us altogether declare that Basilan is now ASG-free.”
Luzon added their surrender was the “best Christmas gift” to the people of Basilan and a major milestone towards lasting peace and progress in the province.
Their surrender was made possible through the combined efforts of the military, Sumisip municipal government, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Basilan.
Sumisip Mayor Jul-Adnan Hataman said their surrender is essential for the town’s goal of achieving lasting peace and opens up opportunities for continuous progress and sustainable development.
The surrenderers are currently under the custody of the Sumisip municipal government and will undergo a social integration program.