ZAMBOANGA CITY — The declaration of Basilan province as Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)-free is a “critical milestone that signifies the triumph of good governance, peace-building, and inclusive development over terror and conflict.”

Brig. Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows), said yesterday that Basilan’s declaration as an ASG-free province was marked by a series of meaningful and symbolic activities that embodied the province’s difficult but triumphant journey from conflict to peace.

It began with the demilitarization of firearms under the Small Arms and Light Weapons Program, where a total of 329 surrendered firearms were demilitarized and publicly destroyed by a roller truck, he said.

This act powerfully represented the dismantling of instruments of violence. It underscored Basilan’s commitment to breaking free from the cycle of violence and embracing a future anchored on peace, the rule of law, stability and good governance, the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) commander said.

Luzon said that the highlight of the event was the unveiling of the ASG-Free Marker, a monument commemorating Basilan’s transformation.

Etched on the marker is a message that captures the essence of the province’s struggle and triumph: “Basilan has risen above its darkest chapter through unwavering resolve, collaborative leadership, and grassroots peace-building, emerging stronger, more united and determined to redefine its future.”

The marker itself features a white dove descending into two open hands, sculpted from demilitarized firearms, clutching an olive branch bearing 13 leaves, each symbolizing Basilan’s 11 municipalities and two cities.

The design reflects the province’s resilience and victory over years of violence through unity and peace-building.

It was followed by a symbolic release of white doves, signifying the province’s collective flight toward a future defined by freedom, unity and hope, leaving behind the fear and oppression that once loomed over its communities.

Program proper: Voices of peace and commitment

Basilan Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman delivered a heartfelt message highlighting Basilan’s transformation and the collective efforts that brought peace to the province.

He acknowledged the unwavering support of local government units, security forces and the religious sector in the province’s successful campaign against the Abu Sayyaf Group.

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr. shared a moving reflection on his time and reminisced about his experiences in Basilan as both battalion and brigade commander, recalling it as one of the most challenging yet most fulfilling chapters of his military career.

He lauded the event as the result of years of collective effort and sacrifice and the fruit of years of shared struggles.

“This is the transformational result of the collective efforts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, national and local government, religious sector, security forces and our people. We are now seeing the dividends of the peace process in Basilan’s growing,” Galvez pointed out.