ZAMBOANGA CITY – The municipality of Ungkaya Pukan in Basilan, once a stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf Group, was declared as ASG-free during a ceremony held at the municipal hall in Barangay Bohe Pahu last Friday, July 19.
THE town of Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan was declared Abu Sayyaf Group-free on July 19. (Western Mindanao Command photo)
During the ceremony, municipal officials turned over a 60-mm mortar to Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, 101st Infantry Brigade commander.
The weapon will be processed under the Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program and the Assistance of the Security, Peace, Integration, and Recovery for Advancing Human Security in BARMM project.
The municipality has been the site of several clashes between the military and the terrorist group.
In June 2023, Abu Sayyaf leader Nurudin Muddalan was killed in a gun battle with police who were trying to arrest him.
In July 2016, some 200 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group attacked the headquarters of the Philippine Army 18th Infantry Battalion.
Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. William Gonzales commended the local government unit and different sectors for the fruitful collaboration which led to the declaration.
“My appreciation goes to 101st Brigade and the local government units of Ungkaya Pukan for their relentless and collaborative efforts. May we all continue to purvey the message of peace and patriotism that is forever engraved in the hearts of public servants,” said Gonzales.